This course is designed to provide the student with a wide range of fundamental information about a career in welding and to begin building critical welding skills. Students learn about career opportunities and the importance of safety awareness that will be reinforced in later laboratory exercises. Other fundamental skills include learning the basic layout of construction drawings and how to read and correctly interpret welding symbols. Students learn thermal torch techniques to cut flat stock. They will also learn and use Plasma Cutting and Carbon Arc gouging procedures. As they begin to learn about arc welding processes, students learn to set up welding equipment, the components of an arc welding machine, and the various types of electrodes used in arc welding procedures. Using an E7018 electrode, students begin by practicing basic SMAW welding processes and technique. Project assignments allow students an opportunity to practice and develop welding and cutting skills.