Developing laboratory exercises for advanced welding course

The paper describes changes in the undergraduate advanced welding course at Mechanical Engineering Technology Department, Purdue University. In the past the emphasis was placed on the welding skills. However, with significant advancements in computer technology, robotics, and other sophisticated equipment, it is more likely that engineering technology students will become welding operators, supervisors, inspectors, or welding technologists rather then welders. Thus, the laboratory exercises are being modified to emphasize and reach students basic skills required for these new positions, such as quality control, welding automation, and troubleshooting skills.