Welding

PVCC offers a series of three (3) FastForward welding programs. Students can begin with either Basic Welder or Gas Metal Arc Welding. 

Basic Welder

Proficiency in welding techniques can enhance employment opportunities and career growth potential. Designed for students with no previous welding experience or those who desire to upgrade their skills, this program emphasizes safety procedures while covering the operation of AC and DC power sources, weld heat, polarities, and electrodes for joining various alloys through SMAW processes. Students will gain hands-on practice welding different types of joints on flat plate (1G), horizontal (2G), and vertical up (3G) positions. Upon completion, students are eligible to attempt the D1.1 SMAW Plate Welder qualification exam offered by the American Welding Society (AWS). 

Contact Hours: 100

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

Gas Metal Arc welding (GMAW), also known as MIG or wire welding, uses a continuously fed metal wire as both the filler material and electrode. This program is designed not only for students who have no prior experience but also those looking to further develop or upgrade their skills. GMAW has applications in various industries including construction, manufacturing and vehicle production. Hands-on practice includes welding safety, shop practice, and the setup and maintenance of a semi-automatic arc welding unit. Students will gain experience welding different types of joints on flat plate (1G), horizontal (2G), and vertical up (3G) positions. Upon completion, students are eligible to attempt the D1.1 GMAW plate welder qualification exam offered by the American Welding Society (AWS).

Contact Hours: 100

Pipe Welding

Pipe and pipeline welders work at construction sites, oil and gas fields, fabrication shops, water industries and nuclear power stations. Primary emphasis is on advancing skills in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), also known as stick welding.Topics include use of 6010 and 7018 electrodes, full penetration welds in the vertical (2G), horizontal fixed (5G) and inclined (6G) positions, as well as prepping and fitting techniques. Testing will take place in the included (6G) position. Upon completion, students are eligible to attempt the QC7-93 qualification for pipe welding offered by the American Welding Society (AWS).

Prerequisite: Minimum of two years of experience in stick welding AND have a vertical up (3G) qualification or able to pass a vertical up (3G) qualification prior to enrollment.

Contact Hours: 100

Start Here

1. Complete the Workforce Services Student Questionnaire.
2. A coach will contact you after receiving your questionnaire.
3. Ask your coach about meeting and/or attending a FastForward Funding Session.
4. Check the schedule page to see when this FastForward program is next offered.

Admissions Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet minimum essential functions and standards for program.
• Attend a coaching appointment and/or information session prior to enrollment.
• Complete all funding assistance paperwork (if applicable) prior to enrollment.
• English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with acceptable score prior to program admission. CASAS assessments can be scheduled by emailing at tjace@pvcc.edu or calling 434-961-5461. Include your first and last name, program of interest, and program start date in your email. Assessment should be completed at least one week prior to program start date. CASAS assessment is also recommended, but not required, for prospective students who feel their reading comprehension needs improvement.