Maritime Welding School for Careers and Jobs in Welding
FAQs
Do I need prior welding experience?
No, our welding program was developed to provide a solid foundation and all the necessary skills to be a successful maritime welder.
What if I have prior welding experience?
The program will build on your skill level and provide additional welding training to ensure your success.
Do you offer job placement?
We offer lifetime career assistance and we have personnel from both the offshore and shipbuilding companies visit the Academy to recruit our graduates. Since CDA has a full-time Placement Officer, our placement rates are among the best in the industry.
What certifications will I receive?
This 16 week accredited program will fully prepare you for a career in the maritime welding industry. CDA’s Maritime Welding Program is the only welding program in the United States to certify students in the following areas:
- American Welding Society (AWS) Certificate of Completion - Certified AWS Entry Level Welder
- AWS Entry Level Welder Certification Card
- Name added to Nationally Searchable AWS Database
- AWS S.E.N.S.E. Entry Level Welder Qualification in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
- API Offshore Safety and Survival Certificate
- API RP2D Rigging Certificate
- National Center for Construction, Education and Research (NCCER) Core Curriculum Certification (includes Basic Safety, Construction Math, Hand & Power Tools, Blueprints, Employability Skills & Resume Writing)
- First Aid/CPR, AED, & O2 Provider
- Hazardous Material Handling (HAZMAT)
- CDA Maritime Welding Diploma
Where can I work?
Anywhere where there is welding. Our focus is on shipyards and offshore, but welding jobs are available in the following industries: automotive, railroads, aerospace, bridges, large construction, fabrication, factories, overseas contractor work, and the government. More than 50% of goods produced in the United States have been welded.
What is a typical day like in school?
CDA prides itself on creating a training environment that reflects the real world of maritime welding. The training is comprised of both the academic and practical aspects of welding. Our students’ barge welding skills are perfected in and on our 160 foot barge. They work on industrial projects ranging from repair and maintenance of tugboats, ships and other marine structures to the manufacturing of small barges. Each day begins and ends with safety meetings and runs from 8 am to 5 pm.
What income should I expect to earn as a maritime welder?
The range for an entry level welder depends on where you choose to work. There are many opportunities available. A welder starting in a shipyard can expect to start at $13-$19 an hour, while offshore welders earn anywhere from $15-25 an hour.
Welders with 3-5 years of experience can expect to earn $50,000 to $60,000 a year.
Do you offer campus tours?
Yes, we encourage all prospective students and families to attend an informational session and tour CDA's facilities. We offer tours Monday through Friday by appointment. Please contact Admissions to make an appointment.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, we are authorized to accept federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant, Stafford loans, and the Parent Plus loan (for dependent students). Private, credit-based loans are also available. Please visit the Financial Aid page for more information.
Can I use the GI Bill?
The Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bill can pay you a maximum of $1,420 a month while in school; however, we advise veterans to use this money for personal expenses since it takes about 8-10 weeks for the VA to process everything. *Starting October 1st, the Post 9/11 GI Bill will be changed to apply to trade schools so please contact Admissions for more information.*
Is housing available?
Yes, barracks-style on-campus housing is available, with a full meal plan. You can also contact Admissions for independent, off-campus housing options.
