After attending schools in the Iowa Falls Community School District, and graduating in 1925, Richard Welden enrolled at Ellsworth Community College, then transferred to Iowa State University, where he completed a bachelor's degree in 1931.
In the midst of World War II, Welden helped build the Alaskan Highway, and during his career in civil engineering, served as president of the Associated General Contractors of Iowa.
Both AGC–Iowa and the American Society of Civil Engineers elevated Welden to life member status.
[1] Welden was a Methodist and held membership in Rotary International, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Farm Bureau, and served on the advisory board of two banks.
Welden remained a state representative until 1987, winning two terms in District 18.