If you are a student who is interested in the building of large equipment, aircraft carriers, enjoys working independently,
considers yourself to be highly attentive to detail, can problem-solve, and work in a variety of settings, then you should
explore exciting training and career opportunities in the welding industry!
The Welding program is a one (1) year dual credit program that prepares students for entry-level employment, and/or for entry into
post-secondary education program at the apprentice, certificate, or associate’s level.
The program teaches students about welding and metals. Students learn to
read blueprints, set up equipment and weld using various techniques,
including flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead. Partnerships have been
developed with multiple industry partners, including Liebherr USA and
Huntington-Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding to provide curriculum
materials and support of this program.
As a component of the program, students will have the opportunity to qualify
for the SENSE Training Program Certification Examination (Level 1, Entry-Level Welder) and the NOCTI (National Occupational Competency Testing Institute) Welding Assessment, which demonstrates students' understanding of concepts and knowledge needed to exceed in the field of welding. Additionally, students are eligible to earn three
(3) hours of dual-credit toward a Certificate of Career Studies at Paul D. Camp
Community College if seeking Career Studies Certificate.
Occupations: Welder; Millwright; Occupational Health and
Safety Specialist
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Typical Salary in Virginia: $28,560- $63,740 depending on
education level and specialization
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National Estimated Salary: $41,380
Employment Outlook: Employment of welders is expected to grow 6 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the
average for all occupations. Properly skilled welders with up-to-date training should have the best job prospects.
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