Advanced Welding Institute
General Information — Advanced Welding Institute
About (Overview)
Advanced Welding Institute (AWI) is a premier technical training institution dedicated to developing skilled and certified welders for the global workforce. Located in South Burlington, Vermont, AWI offers an immersive, hands-on learning experience designed to prepare students for immediate employment in various industrial sectors, including manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, and aerospace. The institute emphasizes small class sizes, individualized instruction, and real-world welding applications, allowing students to gain proficiency in a wide range of techniques such as MIG, TIG, stick, and pipe welding.
Since its establishment, AWI has earned a strong reputation for producing graduates with exceptional technical skills and work readiness. The school’s mission is to deliver high-quality education through intensive practical training, promoting safety, precision, and professionalism. Students at Advanced Welding Institute benefit from state-of-the-art welding labs, industry-standard equipment, and instructors who bring decades of field experience. The curriculum is designed to meet the standards of the American Welding Society (AWS) and provides certifications that open doors to lucrative and stable careers in welding and metal fabrication.
Contact Information
Address: 2 Green Tree Drive, South Burlington, VT 05403, United States
Phone: +1 (802) 660-0600
Email: info@awi.edu
School Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2003 |
| Type | Private Technical Institute |
| Motto | “Excellence Through Hands-On Training” |
| Accreditation | Licensed by the State of Vermont and recognized by AWS |
| Campus Setting | Urban |
| Class Size | Small (10–15 students per instructor) |
Advanced Welding Institute Rankings
| Category | Ranking / Status |
|---|---|
| National Technical Colleges | Recognized among top welding training schools in the U.S. |
| Global | Not globally ranked due to specialized focus |
| Industry Reputation | Highly regarded by employers for workforce-ready graduates |
Advanced Welding Institute Academics
Advanced Welding Institute Faculties / Departments
- Welding Technology Department
- Advanced Pipe Welding Department
- Structural Welding Department
- Welding Inspection and Certification Department
- Continuing Education and Skills Advancement Division
Advanced Welding Institute Courses and Programs / Majors
- Professional Welding Program
- Advanced Pipe Welding Program
- Combination Structural and Pipe Welding
- Custom Corporate Welding Training
- AWS Certification Preparation Courses
- Continuing Education for Certified Welders
Online Learning
Advanced Welding Institute primarily focuses on hands-on, in-person training due to the nature of welding as a technical skill. However, the school offers limited online resources, such as theory-based instructional modules, safety training, and test preparation materials. These digital learning components complement the intensive on-site instruction, allowing students to study theoretical concepts like welding codes, metallurgy, and safety procedures remotely before applying them in the lab.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Score Range |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not Required |
| ACT | Not Required |
| Entrance Test | Welding Aptitude Evaluation |
| English Proficiency (if applicable) | Required for non-native speakers |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Advanced Welding Institute maintains an impressive retention rate of approximately 85%, demonstrating strong student satisfaction and support. The graduation rate is around 90%, with most students completing their programs within the designated timeframe. Nearly all graduates secure employment within six months of completion, reflecting the institute’s practical focus and industry alignment.
Advanced Welding Institute Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
AWI does not require standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT for admission. Applicants are evaluated based on their motivation, work ethic, and commitment to learning a trade. A high school diploma or GED is required, and candidates should possess basic math and reading skills necessary for understanding technical materials and blueprints.
Advanced Welding Institute Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Rate |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 80% |
Advanced Welding Institute Application Requirements
To apply, prospective students must complete an application form, submit proof of high school completion or GED, and participate in an admissions interview. The interview assesses career goals and readiness for the intensive training schedule. Applicants may be required to take a welding aptitude or safety assessment to determine program placement. International students must demonstrate English proficiency and may need additional documentation for visa eligibility.
Application Process
- Complete the AWI application form (online or in-person)
- Submit academic transcripts or GED certification
- Attend an admissions interview
- Take welding aptitude or placement assessment (if applicable)
- Receive acceptance confirmation
- Register for orientation and financial counseling
- Begin training program on assigned start date
Advanced Welding Institute Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Winter Session | December 1 |
| Spring Session | March 1 |
| Summer Session | June 1 |
| Fall Session | September 1 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to provide a brief personal statement outlining their interest in welding, previous technical experience (if any), and career aspirations in the trade industry.
Advanced Welding Institute Scholarships
The institute offers several financial aid options, including scholarships for veterans, women in trades, and high-performing students. Additionally, AWI participates in federal financial aid programs and offers payment plans for students who qualify. Many local industry partners also sponsor students through workforce development grants.
Advanced Welding Institute Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Professional Welding Program | $20,000 – $22,000 |
| Advanced Pipe Welding Program | $15,000 – $18,000 |
| Combination Structural and Pipe Welding | $25,000 – $28,000 |
| Continuing Education Courses | $3,000 – $6,000 |
Advanced Welding Institute Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student population at AWI consists primarily of motivated adults pursuing career changes or technical specialization. Approximately 85% of students are male, reflecting industry demographics, though female enrollment is steadily increasing. The average age range is between 20 and 35 years old. Students represent diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, including White, Hispanic, African American, and Native American populations, as well as a growing number of international enrollees.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
AWI provides supportive options for low-income students through financial aid, flexible payment structures, and workforce development grants. Students with disabilities are accommodated through customized lab setups, adaptive equipment, and tailored instructional support to ensure equitable access to training opportunities.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 150–200 |
| Average Class Size | 10–15 |
| International Students | 5–10% |
| Completion Rate | ~90% |
University Diversity
Advanced Welding Institute values diversity and inclusion within the technical trades. Its commitment to providing equal opportunity education has resulted in an increasingly diverse student body representing a variety of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The institute encourages women and underrepresented groups to enter the welding industry, promoting awareness and inclusion through mentorship programs and community outreach.
Average Earnings
Graduates from AWI are in high demand and typically earn strong starting salaries. Entry-level welders often start between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, with advanced pipe welders earning $70,000 or more depending on certification level and experience. Many graduates find positions in shipyards, oil and gas industries, and industrial construction, with opportunities for overtime and travel.
Advanced Welding Institute Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at AWI consists of experienced master welders and certified welding inspectors (CWIs) who bring decades of field experience into the classroom. They emphasize individualized instruction and real-world applications, preparing students for the rigorous demands of the welding profession.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Instructors hold multiple welding certifications from the American Welding Society and have professional experience in diverse sectors such as pipeline construction, fabrication, and structural steelwork. Their teaching methods focus on safety, precision, and efficiency, ensuring students achieve mastery across multiple welding disciplines.
Advanced Welding Institute Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The AWI campus features fully equipped welding labs, classrooms for theoretical instruction, and student lounges for relaxation and networking. While the institute does not offer on-campus housing, it assists students in locating affordable nearby accommodation options. Student life centers on practical learning, teamwork, and industry readiness, with occasional workshops and seminars hosted by visiting industry experts.
Transportation
Located in South Burlington, the campus is easily accessible by car and public transit. Free parking is available for students, and the area is well-connected to regional highways. The campus location offers convenient access to restaurants, housing, and essential services, making it an ideal setting for students dedicated to intensive technical training.