100%* Job Placement Rate

The Machining and Manufacturing program at Mitchell Technical College is industry-driven to educate students who want to pursue a career in the manufacturing industry. The program provides the proper skills for graduates to excel in welding, machining and lean manufacturing techniques.

Instruction is American Welding Society (AWS) code-based so that students may sit for welding qualification testing, assuring future employer requirements.  

Designed for student success, graduates will have many employment opportunities in the manufacturing sector. Labs include up-to-date technology in areas like gas metal arc welding of steel and aluminum, gas tungsten arc welding of steel and aluminum, robotic welding, operation of machining stations, metal forming, laser cutting and plasma cutting.

The program provides a path to industry leadership.  With the knowledge and abilities gained, graduates will be able to become certified and help fill the demand in today’s highly technical manufacturing environment.

When you enroll in the Machining and Manufacturing program at Mitchell Tech, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in four semesters or exit after two semesters with a diploma.

Additional Info

Federal wage data indicates an average annual salary of approximately $43,000 annually for welders. However, recent Mitchell Tech reports show a high demand for welders in the midwest region of the US with South Dakota starting wages as high as $22/hour (approx. $45,000 annually) and more with overtime. You are encouraged to visit with an instructor about specific employment opportunities.

*Placement data is gathered through graduate surveys, faculty-collected data, and phone surveys started after six months of graduation. In 2021, 8 of the 8 graduates are represented in the data. Employment rate is figured by: (graduates employed)/(responding graduates who are seeking employment).