Basic Welder – Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) - Workforce Development Program
Location
- Columbus, GA
Summary description:
The Welding – Basic Shielded Metal Arc Welder (SMAW) SkillBridge program prepares transitioning service members for entry-level welding careers in construction, manufacturing, and industrial maintenance environments. Participants receive hands-on training in welding safety, equipment setup, blueprint reading, and shielded metal arc welding techniques aligned with industry standards and workforce demand. This accelerated program emphasizes applied skills, shop safety, and employability to support a smooth transition into the civilian skilled trades workforce.
Job description:
As an entry-level Shielded Metal Arc Welder, graduates may work in a variety of industrial and construction settings performing basic welding and fabrication tasks. Typical duties include reading blueprints, preparing materials, operating welding equipment, performing SMAW welds on carbon steel, and following safety and quality control procedures. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as welder helper, junior welder, fabrication assistant, or apprentice welder, with opportunities for advancement through continued training and on-the-job experience.
Eligibility factors:
Marked DIB in the DoW directory
DoW marked this opportunity as part of the Defense Industrial Base when Career PCS last checked the mission field on Oct 11, 2026. This directory mark does not guarantee participant eligibility, command authorization, or a job offer.
How DIB SkillBridge works