Lakeshore College Earns American Welding Society Accreditation
CLEVELAND, Wis. — March 5, 2026 — Lakeshore College has received Provisional Accreditation from the American Welding Society (AWS) under the AWS QC47:2016-AMD2 specification for certification of welders and accreditation of test facilities.
The designation recognizes the college’s ability to meet nationally recognized standards for welder performance qualification testing and certification.
With this accreditation, Lakeshore College is authorized to conduct welder qualification testing using approved welding processes that follow American industry codes and standards. The college can also submit credential packages to AWS so certified welders may be added to the AWS National Registry of Certified Welders.
Rachel Kroeplien, dean of applied technology and economic development at Lakeshore College, said the accreditation strengthens the school’s ability to support regional employers and workforce development.
“This achievement underscores Lakeshore College’s dedication to workforce development and excellence in welding education and certification services,” Kroeplien said.
The provisional accreditation applies to both on-site and off-site testing locations defined in the college’s Accredited Test Facility quality manual. The designation remains valid through January 1, 2027.
To maintain accreditation, Lakeshore College will follow a three-year review cycle, which includes:
- An on-site audit every three years
- Annual self-audits during off years
Officials say the accreditation helps ensure local employers have access to highly trained and certified welding professionals, an important part of the region’s manufacturing workforce.
More information about Lakeshore College welding programs is available at lakeshore.edu, while details about AWS certification standards can be found at aws.org.
About Lakeshore College
Lakeshore College, formerly known as Lakeshore Technical College, educates more than 9,000 students each year through career training programs and pathways toward bachelor’s degrees.
The college has received national recognition from several organizations, including:
- Ranked #2 two-year college in the nation by Washington Monthly
- Ranked #17 nationally by Forbes
- Ranked #2 in Wisconsin by WalletHub
- Named a Top 150 two-year college by the Aspen Institute
- Recipient of a Bellwether Award in 2024
The institution graduates roughly 800 students annually, and associate degree graduates report a median salary of $61,355 within six months of graduation.
In addition to its main campus in Cleveland, Lakeshore College offers learning campuses in downtown Sheboygan and Manitowoc, along with classes at additional locations across the district.
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