Now Approved: OSPI Approves MAC Welding Frameworks – Expanding Cross-Sector Welding Pathways
As part of our Career Connect Washington Maritime Sector ongoing work, we actively track, document, and inform about emerging technologies and trends. The MAC Model Welding Framework project team is pleased to announce that the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has officially approved the MAC Welding and Fabrication Model Frameworks—a major milestone in expanding high-quality welding education across Washington State.
Framework Highlights
180-hour Metal Trades Foundation Framework- This exploratory course is the entry point to the Welding Technology program of study
180-hour Welding Technology I Framework- This course is the first of the two preparatory courses available for use in a comprehensive high school setting- this course is eligible for 1.0 credits in integrated Math 1
180-hour Welding Technology II Framework- This course is the second and final preparatory course in the welding Technology program of study and is eligible for 1.0 credits in Lab Science
Supports Career Explore, Prep, and Launch programming
Covers both steel and aluminum alloy welding
Expands access in rural and urban communities
Why This Matters
The American Welding Society projects a need for 336,000 new welding professionals nationally by 2026. The MAC Welding Project was developed to address:
Growing cross-industry demand
Access gaps in underserved rural and urban communities statewide
Lack of open-source instructional resources
Limited faculty professional development
Insufficient explore, prep, and launch programming
Expanded and industry aligned student pathways from K12 to community and technical college welding and related programming
Expanded adult learner pathways
Phase II: What’s Next
Professional Development – fully aligned with industry standards.
K12 and post-secondary faculty
Industry
Regional Dual Credit Pilot – Proof-of-concept for statewide dual credit expansion.
Project Advisory Committee Formation – Industry, education, and workforce leaders.
Resource Website Launch – TeachWelding.org is now live with approved frameworks, pathway map, and career information.
Scaling Industry Impact
As welding continues to be a critical skill across sectors, Phase II will scale impact statewide, ensuring students have access to high-quality, industry-aligned welding education and career pathways.
We invite you to explore the resources and join us in building a scalable, sustainable model for welding education that meets workforce needs and expands opportunity for Washington students.
Contact us at marine.coe@skagit.edu to:
Join the MAC bimonthly comm list
Learn more about the project
Learn more about upcoming professional development
What is MAC?
MAC stands for Maritime, Agriculture & Natural Resources, and Construction—three foundational industries leading this initiative. Welding is a cross-sector skill supporting careers in energy, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and many more industries.
Project Team
The MAC Welding Project is led by a committed team of statewide partners.
Project Management Team
· Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology, as CCW Maritime Sector Lead (project & fiscal lead)
· Agriculture & Natural Resource Center of Excellence
· AGC Education Foundation
Project Team
Sierra Pacific Industries (industry lead)
Capital STEM Network
Career Connect NW
Career Connect SE
Grays Harbor College
Skagit Valley College
Walla Walla Community College