Welding Receives Renewed Accreditation from Washington Association of Building Officials

Posted on: Mar, 27, 2023

Welding Receives Renewed Accreditation from Washington Association of Building Officials

Grays Harbor College is proud to announce that its welding technology program has received renewed accreditation from Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO). The program underwent a rigorous evaluation process to ensure it meets the highest standards in welding education.

GHC offers three associate degree options in welding: structural welding, construction welding, and pipe welding. Training is geared to provide the skill base, knowledge, and professional attitude required to eventually become a journey-level combination welder. 

“We are proud to offer a welding technology program that not only meets but exceeds the rigorous standards set by WABO,” said Nicole Lacroix, Vice President of Instruction at GHC. “This recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students to maintain the highest standards in career and technical education.”

Established in 1977, WABO was founded with the goal of advancing building codes and standards to ensure the protection of public health and safety. The organization offers guidance on legislative issues, supports the creation of state and national codes, provides educational resources for its members, and advocates for the preservation of local government authority over code administration.

According to Rod McDonald, welding instructor at GHC, WABO credentials are essential to students’ career opportunities. “To many of our students, the WABO welding credentials they are able to earn here will be at least as valuable to their career opportunities as their degrees.”

In addition to the three associate degrees, GHC offers several different welding certificates. The degree and certificate programs are offered during the day. Night courses are also offered. Training is available for beginners, journeyman upgrades, and certification test preparation.

GHC’s Welding graduates are well-prepared for careers in a wide range of industries. “Our welding program graduates are highly skilled and sought-after professionals who contribute to the workforce in a meaningful way,” said McDonald. McDonald also shared that recent Welding grads have gone on to work at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Ocean Gold, and other local and regional employers.

The renewed accreditation of GHC’s welding program is a testament to the college’s commitment to providing a quality education that prepares students for success in their chosen fields. The program’s faculty continue to work hard to ensure that students receive the best possible education and training in welding. Learn more about welding at GHC on the welding technology program’s webpage.