Welding Programs in Hampton, Virginia

Becoming a Welder in Hampton, Virginia

If you’re considering a career as a welder in Hampton, Virginia, you’re in for an exciting and rewarding journey. Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining materials, such as metals, using high heat. It’s essential in various industries, including automotive, construction, and manufacturing. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a welder in Hampton, Virginia, highlighting the different educational paths available, local employment opportunities, and certification options.

About Hampton

Hampton is a historic city located in southeastern Virginia, known for its rich culture and maritime heritage. It boasts attractions such as the Virginia Air and Space Science Center and the historic Fort Monroe. For more information about Hampton, you can visit the official city website.

Welding Training Programs in Hampton, Virginia

Hampton offers several excellent options for welding programs. Here are some local schools where you can pursue welding training:

1. Virginia Peninsula Community College
   Located in Hampton, this college offers comprehensive welding training programs, including SMAW (Stick), FCAW (Flux-Core), GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG). They also conduct AWS Accredited Testing on the third Friday of every month. For more details, visit their welding program page.

2. Tidewater Community College
   Although located in neighboring Virginia Beach, approximately 40 miles from Hampton, this college provides robust welding programs and is an AWS Accredited Testing Facility. Explore their offerings by visiting the Tidewater Community College welding page.

3. New Horizons Regional Education Centers
   Situated in nearby Newport News, just 12 miles from Hampton, New Horizons offers a welding program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the welding industry. For more information, check out their program details.

Welding Employment Opportunities in Hampton

Several industries in Hampton provide opportunities for welders:

1. Huntington Ingalls Industries
   Located in the Downtown area, this is one of America’s largest military shipbuilding companies and offers numerous employment opportunities for welders. Visit their careers page to learn more.

2. BAE Systems
   Situated in the Phoebus neighborhood, BAE Systems provides ship repair and modernization services, creating an array of welding job opportunities. Explore their career opportunities.

3. Oceaneering International
   Located on the outskirts of the city, this company offers engineering services and is often in need of skilled welders. Check their employment page for current openings.

Prerequisites for Welding Programs

To enroll in a welding program in Hampton, you’ll typically need the following:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Pass a basic entrance exam.
• Complete a safety training course.
• Meet any physical requirements, such as the ability to lift heavy materials or work in confined spaces.

Welding Certification Options

In Virginia, obtaining certification from the American Welding Society (AWS) is highly recommended. Here are the steps and requirements:

• AWS Certified Welder Program:
  • Test in accordance with QC7 standards.
  • Complete a welder performance qualification test at an AWS Accredited Test Facility.
  • Submit a completed Certified Welder Application.
  • Submit Maintenance of Welder Certification prior to expiration.

For more information, visit the AWS Certified Welder Program page.

Requirements, Certifications, and Licensing for Welding in Hampton, Virginia

Virginia does not require a state license for welding, but AWS certification is often required by employers. Virginia Peninsula Community College and Tidewater Community College both offer excellent resources and testing facilities.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a welder in Hampton, Virginia, offers a pathway to a fulfilling and stable profession. With the right training and certifications, you can tap into numerous job opportunities in the region. Contact one of the local schools today to take the first step towards your new career.

For more about the job outlook for welders, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.