What Is It Known For?
Founded in 2009, Calumet Welding Center was established alongside its parent company, Calumet Testing Services, in Griffith, Indiana. The facility was created to address the growing training needs of both the public and local businesses in the welding industry. With a focus on staying connected to industry trends, the school keeps students and staff informed about regional projects and job opportunities.
Although enrollment numbers aren’t mentioned, the school emphasizes small class sizes with a 1:9 student-to-instructor ratio for more focused instruction.
Degrees & Certifications
Calumet Welding Center provides streamlined programs that can be completed in as little as 3 to 6 months, with start dates available throughout the year to fit different schedules.
The programs offered here include:
- Pipe and Plate Welding- Four Processes
- Four Process- Plate Welding (Structural Plate)
- SMAW & GMAW Welding (Structural Plate)
- Continued Education SMAW Pipe Welding
Class Schedules
Calumet Welding Center offers flexible class options to fit different needs. Full-time classes run from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, while part-time morning classes are held from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the same days. Most of the training happens in a hands-on shop environment, giving students practical skills similar to what they’d use on the job.
Although externships are not part of the programs, the school provides job placement support, leveraging over 200 local connections within a 20–40 minute radius.
Is It Legit?
Yes, Calumet Welding Center is a legitimate institution. It is recognized as an American Welding Society (AWS) Accredited Testing Facility.
Acceptance Rate
While Calumet Welding Center does not publish its acceptance rate, prospective students must meet specific enrollment requirements to join their welding programs.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
While Calumet Welding Center doesn’t publish tuition rates for all their programs, we found pricing for these specific courses:
- SMAW & GMAW Structural Welding: $5,234.00
- SMAW Pipe Welding: $5,264.00
However, the final cost of all the programs might vary. For the most accurate pricing information and to discuss financial options, schedule a consultation with their admissions team.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Welding
Campus Locations
Griffith 1947 N Griffith Blvd. Griffith, IN 46319
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Calumet Welding Center has an outstanding and consistently positive reputation, with an overwhelming focus on the expertise of its instructors and the success of its graduates. The earliest review found is from ten years ago, showing a long history of high satisfaction.
Overall Score: 4.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Instructors: The most frequent and passionate praise is directed at the instructors. Reviewers consistently describe them as knowledgeable, motivational, and dedicated to their students’ success. They are credited with teaching not only the technical skills of welding but also life lessons.
Effective Career Training: Students feel the school provides the skills and confidence needed to enter the welding industry. Many reviews highlight that they went from knowing “nothing” to being able to get certified and find jobs “shortly after graduating.”
Strong Job Placement and Career Opportunities: A major theme is the school’s success in helping graduates find jobs and get on the right career path. Several reviewers mentioned that the training and support led directly to employment, including positions in unions and the railroad industry.
Supportive Environment: Reviewers describe the facilities as well-kept and the entire staff as helpful. The environment is described as one that fosters learning and sets students up for success.
Common Criticisms
Isolated Disrespectful Behavior: There is one review from a year ago that stands as a significant outlier. It complains of “disrespect that was shown by the teachers,” which directly contradicts the overwhelming positive feedback about the instructors.
Momentum
The reviews for Calumet Welding Center show very strong and sustained positive momentum. The most recent reviews continue the same themes of praise for the instructors and the success of the programs as reviews from several years ago. The one negative review appears to be an isolated incident and has not affected the overall positive trend. There is no evidence of the school publicly responding to online reviews.