Shasta College Approved as Accredited Testing Facility by the American Welding Society

After a months-long application and interview process, the Shasta College welding facility was approved last week to serve as an accredited testing facility, or ATF, by the American Welding Society (AWS). Shasta College will be one of only three colleges in California and one of only 100 in the United States that are approved testing facilities. 

As an ATF, Shasta College will be able to certify students for an optional fee; this certification is recognized internationally. Many employers will give priority consideration to ATF –certified applicants when hiring. In addition, welders employed in the surrounding areas can use the Shasta College testing facility to gain ATF certification for career advancement. Shasta College can conduct on site welder certifications, as well as assist companies in writing specific welding procedures catered to their company.

Shasta College’s welding program offers both a degree and certificate; classes are available year-round. In 2013-14, enrollments grew to about 300 per year. The college hired a second full-time welding instructor last year, Jason Davis, to work with long-time faculty member Mark Smith in order to serve the increasing student population. Both full-time faculty members are AWS Certified Welding Inspectors.