WELCOME TO
Great Plains Welding Academy
Your customized training facility located in the heart of the Black Hills!
Join us at GPWA and embark on a journey towards becoming a skilled and confident welder!
WHO WE ARE
Discover the Great Plains Welding Academy Difference
At Great Plains Welding Academy, we're more than just a welding school – we're dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in welding. With our accelerated program, personalized attention, and industry-standard certifications, we're shaping the future of welding education, one student at a time. Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring professional, our program is tailored to fit your needs. Plus, forget about those tedious general education requirements – at GPWA, it's all about hands-on learning without the fluff!
18
Student Graduates
95%
Job Placement Rate
100%
Satisfaction
WHO WE ARE
Discover the Great Plains Welding Academy Difference
At Great Plains Welding Academy, we're more than just a welding school – we're dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in welding. With our accelerated program, personalized attention, and industry-standard certifications, we're shaping the future of welding education, one student at a time.
Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring professional, our program is tailored to fit your needs. Plus, forget about those tedious general education requirements – at GPWA, it's all about hands-on learning without the fluff!
18
Student Graduates
95%
Job Placement Rate
100%
Method Satisfaction
Discover What Sets Us Apart
Accelerated Program
You can skip the 2 year degree and complete your training in just 12 weeks or LESS, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly and start your welding career sooner.
Small Student-to-Teacher Ratio
Benefit from personalized attention and more one-on-one guidance from experienced instructors to enhance your learning experience to build trust and knowledge as a welder.
Budget-Friendly Education
An affordable program to achieve your welding certifications because we believe in making quality welding education accessible to all.
Nationally Recognized Certifications
Receive 8 industry-standard certifications recognized nationally, based off AWS D1.1 Structural Steel in GMAW (MIG) and SMAW (Stick) processes
Real-Life Experiences
Gain valuable hands-on valuable lessons not only in the welding field but experience with safety protocols, blueprint interpretation, work ethic, and exposure to different industries through guest speakers and tours, preparing you for real-world welding scenarios.
Focused on Welding
Skip the general education courses and dive straight into the welding skills you came here for. We prioritize practical knowledge over fluff, ensuring you gain essential skills that prepare you for success in the welding industry
Our Team
Tommy Myers
President
CWI/CWE
Brianna Myers
Vice President
Marketing & Business Relations
Sean Clary
Welding Technology Instructor
At GPWA, your welding knowledge and education is our passion!
Want to know how to become a knowledgeable welder in 3 MONTHS or less?!
TESTIMONIALS
What Students Are
Saying About GPWA
When we got home I watched my son show his sisters his certificate, and his sweatshirt, mug and cap! He is SO proud! We could not be more happy with our experience at GP Welding Academy! Thank you guys a million!!!!!
Anne Roghair
TESTIMONIAL
What Students Are
Saying About GPWA
When we got home I watched my son show his sisters his certificate, and his sweatshirt, mug and cap! He is SO proud! We could not be more happy with our experience at GP Welding Academy! Thank you guys a million!!!!!
Anne Roghair
FAQS
Do I need a GED or High School Diploma to attend?
Nope! You don't need a GED or diploma to attend our program. We recommend that you be at least 16 years old (with parental consent) if you plan to complete the program while still in high school.
What welding processes will I learn at the academy?
Our curriculum is based off the AWS D1.1 Structural Steel in GMAW (MIG) and SMAW (Stick) welding techniques. Once you successfully pass your D1.1 certification plates, you will then gain some knowledge in some TIG and flux core.
How long will it take me to complete the academy?
Our curriculum is based on a 240 credit hour course that can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis. For full-time students, the program takes just 6 weeks, and classes run from 8 am to 4 pm. Part-time students can complete the course in just 12 weeks, with either a morning shift (8 am to 12 pm) or an afternoon shift (12 pm to 4 pm). This flexibility allows students to tailor their learning experience to best fit their schedule and commitments.
When do classes start?
This is a part of the customization process we talk about. We don't have set start dates; instead, we tailor our program to your schedule. If there's an available booth slot, it's yours to take. Ready to begin right away? With all paperwork submitted, you can start the following week. It's all about customizing to fit your needs and timeline. We operate year round.
Do you offer housing?
We don't offer housing at the moment. Many of our students arrange their own temporary housing, such as staying at campgrounds, temporary rental options, or Airbnb. We're exploring options for future housing solutions.
What extra costs can I expect?
Alongside the tuition cost, which covers your certifications, the only additional expense would be for your tools and gear. We provide a tool list before your start, and everything can typically be purchased for $250 or less. Our program is designed to be incredibly affordable, ensuring you can kickstart your welding journey without breaking the bank.
Get In Touch
605.510.8000
420 Creek Drive Bldg B
Rapid City, SD 57703
Hours of Operation:
Mon – Frid 8am to 4pm
Sat & Sun – Closed
