Are You Up for the Challenge?

In-Depth Program Overview

This program isn't for the faint of heart. Forged by Valor is a demanding welding program designed to transform you into a highly skilled and sought-after welder. Acceptance is competitive, and we're looking for individuals who share our commitment to excellence. Are you ready to push your limits and see if you have what it takes?

Building Your Welding Expertise, One Skill at a Time

At Forged by Valor, we're committed to equipping you with the skills and knowledge to excel in the welding industry. Our program is designed to be challenging and rewarding, pushing you to develop the discipline, focus, and work ethic needed for success.

Transparency About Testing and Academics

  • Mandatory Weld Tests: Our program culminates in a series of mandatory weld tests that assess your competency in core welding processes. These tests cover basic fillet and groove welds in steel, stainless steel, and aluminum using GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding), GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), and SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding). Passing these tests is a crucial step towards graduation.
  • Academic Achievement: In addition to passing multiple welding techniques, we emphasize a strong foundation in the theoretical knowledge required for success. Students must maintain an 80% average across all academic subjects to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the welding field.
  • Program Completion: The Forged by Valor program requires the successful completion of all 800 hours of instruction and practical application. This includes classroom learning, lab time, and the capstone project.

Understanding Your Responsibilities

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, completing the program within the allotted 800 hours is your responsibility. Falling behind due to academic deficiencies or missed exams will require you to find additional ways to demonstrate your knowledge of the required skills. This may involve attending remedial classes, retaking exams outside of regular class hours, or demonstrating competency through alternative assessments.

Building a Strong Foundation

By taking ownership of your learning journey and dedicating the necessary time and effort, you'll gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the welding industry. Our instructors are here to support you, but ultimately, your success hinges on your commitment.

Creating a Customized Skillset

While proficiency in the core welding processes is essential, Forged by Valor goes beyond the basics. We offer you the opportunity to expand your skillset by learning additional welding processes and techniques. These options might include:

  • Testing on a wide range of materials: We provide guidance and resources for students who want to test on materials beyond steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
  • Industry-Specific Techniques: Our instructors can guide you in exploring advanced welding techniques relevant to your desired career path within the welding industry. Examples include pipe welding, welding in different positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead), and techniques specific to industries like aerospace, construction, or sheet metal welding.

Finding Your Welding Niche

Choosing a career path within the vast welding field can be overwhelming. We recommend trying all the core welding processes offered in our program before making a decision on additional qualifications. This hands-on experience will help you discover which techniques you find most enjoyable and identify areas where your natural talents lie. If you're still unsure about your ideal welding specialization after trying all the core processes, our instructors are here to help! Leverage their expertise to discuss your strengths, interests, and career goals. Together, you can develop a customized skillset that positions you for success in the welding industry.

Putting Your Skills to the Test

To solidify your learning and demonstrate your capabilities, you'll undertake a real-world capstone project. This comprehensive project will require you to:

  • Design: Leverage your theoretical knowledge to design a welding project based on specific requirements. This will involve creating detailed blueprint drawings that clearly communicate the project specifications.
  • Welding Procedure Development: Further demonstrating your understanding of welding theory, you'll develop a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) tailored to the specific materials and techniques required for your project. This will ensure consistent and high-quality welds.
  • Qualification Testing: To validate the effectiveness of your chosen WPS, you'll conduct Welder Qualification testing (WPQ) by creating Welding Procedure Qualification Records (PQRs). These records document the welding parameters and test results, ensuring your welds meet industry standards.
  • Fabrication: Utilize the various welding techniques you've mastered throughout the program to fabricate the designed project.
  • Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) & Destructive Testing (DT): To ensure the integrity and quality of your welds, you'll perform NDT techniques to identify any internal defects. This might involve methods like radiography or ultrasonic testing. Additionally, you may be required to conduct some DT procedures, such as bend tests, to assess the mechanical properties of your welds.
  • Installation: Following industry standards and safety protocols, you'll participate in the installation of your completed project, which may take place in the field. This hands-on experience will solidify your understanding of the practical application of your welding skills.

Are you ready to take the first step?

A career in welding is more than just a job; it's a chance to build something lasting, to be part of something bigger than yourself. Forged by Valor can equip you with the skills and knowledge to achieve your welding goals.