Suffolk Public Schools

Dual Enrollment - Offered jointly with Paul D. Camp Community College
Course Codes by Semester: 8672/8673
Grades: 11-12
One-Year Program
Prerequisite for 8673: Welding I (8672)
Dual Credits: Three (3) Credits                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              High School Credits: One-and-a-half (1.5) 1^st semester; One-and-a-half (1.5) 2^nd semester                                                                                                                        Required GPA: (2.0)   

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 a post-secondary education program at the apprentice, certificate, or associate 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

Typical Salary in Virginia: $28,560- $63,740 depending on education level and specialization
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.