What Is It Known For?
Heartland Welding Academy opened its doors in 2018, built on a simple mission to teach students a trade with serious growth potential. The school was founded by professional welders who spent years working in power plants, petrochemical facilities, and manufacturing shops. Charles “Chuck” Friedrichs owns the academy and brings his field experience directly into the curriculum.
New students can start each month when space becomes available, which means you won’t wait months to begin your training. The school maintains a 16:1 student-to-instructor ratio, giving you enough personal attention to master welding techniques properly. This smaller class size sets Heartland apart from larger technical schools, where you might get lost in the crowd.
Degrees & Certifications
The school currently offers two welding programs:
- Practical Pipe & Structural Code Welding Certification Program (24 weeks)
- Structural Code Welding Certification Program (12 weeks)
Both programs award certificates upon completion that prepare you for industry certification tests. The longer program covers more advanced pipe welding techniques needed for higher-paying jobs in industrial settings.
Class Schedules
You can choose between day and evening classes based on your schedule. Day classes run from 9 am to 3 pm, while evening classes meet from 4 pm to 10 pm. Students attend class five days per week for six hours each day.
The training focuses on hands-on practice, with 90% of your time spent welding rather than sitting in lectures. You’ll work in a shop environment that mirrors actual job sites, so your first day at work won’t feel overwhelming. This practical approach helps students feel confident when they graduate and start their careers.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. Heart and Welding Academy is a legitimate institution. The school is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.
Acceptance Rate
Heartland Welding Academy has an acceptance rate of 100%. This means that the school follows an open admission policy.
How Much Does Tuition Cost
Tuition varies depending on the program you choose:
- Practical Pipe & Structural Code Welding Certification Program: $18,500
- Structural Code Welding Certification Program: $9,450
Additional fees or costs might apply to individual programs. For a more accurate estimate of your total expenses, consider using the school’s net price calculator to factor in any financial aid you might receive.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Welding
Campus Locations
Andover 656 N Andover Rd Andover KS 67002
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Heartland Welding Academy (HWA) has an exceptionally strong and positive reputation, universally praised for its highly practical, hands-on teaching model and the dedication of its instructors. The school is consistently recommended as a top choice for aspiring welders.
Overall Score: 4.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Intense Hands-On, Practical Learning: This is the school’s defining feature. Multiple reviewers emphasize that students start welding on the first day and spend 90 percent of their time in the welding booth, focusing on “stick time” rather than classroom theory. The setup is designed to “simulate on the job” conditions, preparing students directly for the industry.
Exceptional and Dedicated Instructors/Mentors: The instructors are universally praised for being knowledgeable, patient, welcoming, and dedicated. They are repeatedly described as not just teachers, but great mentors for getting into the industry. They are credited with helping students overcome initial fears and working with students one-on-one when they struggle.
Focus on Career and Industry Knowledge: Reviewers highlight that the staff is very knowledgeable about the industry and goes “out of their way to make sure you have everything you need to start a career.” They focus on teaching students “what the actual welding field is going to be like,” and even how “to be not only a great welder but a great individual outside of welding.”
Welcoming and Supportive Environment: The atmosphere is described as “family owned and operated” and “close-knit.” Out-of-state students specifically mentioned being made to feel “welcome the whole time.”
Efficient and Fast-Paced Programs: The program structure, such as the six-month period to earn certifications, is seen as a major positive, efficiently training students for the workforce. The facilities are noted as being “very organized and clean.”
Common Criticisms
Only One Significant Criticism: There is only one negative review among the overwhelming majority of positive feedback. This reviewer said the experience was “like learning to weld all by yourself” and advised others not to “waste the money,” suggesting they should pursue other careers like becoming a doctor or lawyer instead.
Momentum
The positive momentum for Heartland Welding Academy is extremely strong and sustained. The most recent reviews (within the last year) continue to use emphatic language, calling it a “great school” that is “changing the culture.” The high number of students reporting successful completion of the pipe program and praising the hands-on nature and mentorship confirms a consistent positive experience. The singular negative review is a stark outlier that does not represent any broader trend in the feedback.