Tarkio Technology Institute offers a welding program. This has been one of its more successful programs. All students who took the national certification exam passed on their first attempt. After completing the program, Tarkio Tech students have the opportunity to receive national certification with Dennis Nance of CWI Consultants Co., Shenandoah, Iowa.

A Tarkio Tech staff member recently visited Mr. Nance on the importance of national certification. He said, “There are several welding certifications codes such as AWS (American Welding Society) and ASME (American Society for Mechanical Engineers). A welder who makes his or her living where certification under these codes is required can be certified by taking welder certification/qualification tests under these code requirements.”

When asked about the importance of being certified Mr. Nance replied, “Being nationally certified will open doors for many companies in the United States and will help you get your foot in the door. Not having a national certification will require more testing from the company you are trying to work for.”

When asked how hard is it to obtain national certification Mr. Nance replied, “That depends on your skill; the more hands-on you have the easier it will be. I test on a national level with two attempts, no more. I test on visual, look for problems and check guided bend. Anyone who nationally certifies can become a member of the AWS. There is a website you can visit with more information and that’s www.aws.org.”

For more information about the programs offered at Tarkio Tech, e-mail info@tarkiotech.com or call 660-623-9071.