The Fast Track Welding Program is a rigorous 160 hour training program with 20% instructional and 80% hands-on training in Marine Welding. Class prepares students for the American Welding Society (AWS) Certification exam (exam fee included in tuition fee).
The program is designed to meet the workforce needs of regional and area employers.
Class size is limited!
Fast Track Welding (120 Hours)
Associated Credential: AWS Certified Welder
Nights Classes:
Dates:
October 5 - Nov. 16, 2026 (No Class on 11/3/26 Election Day)
January 11 - February 22, 2027 (No Class on 1/18/27 MLK Day)
March 8 - April 15, 2027
Times/Days: 4:30 - 9:30 PM, Mondays – Thursdays
Instructor: P. Staff
Location: Camp Workforce Trades & Innovation Center (WTIC), 612 Carolina Road, Suffolk, VA 23434
Tuition: $3,900*
WCG Price: $1,300
Student must be 16 years or older. No High School Diploma or GED required.
Visit Financial Assistance to learn about available grants and scholarships for eligible students.
Visit Workforce Registration to apply for grants, register, and pay for your class.
Registration Deadline for Non-credit Classes: All registration documents must be submitted by 4:00PM one (1) week prior to class start date. Payments must be submitted by 4:00PM three (3) business days prior to class start date.
For more information, please contact Workforce Development at workforce@pdc.edu or call 757.569.6050.
Job Outlook –
Please update the Fast Track Welding site and the Hampton Roads Workforce Marine Welding site.
As of the first quarter of 2026, total employment in the Hampton Roads Workforce Region for Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers was 2,610.
There is projected annual demand for 229 new entrants into the occupation.
(Source: Jobs EQ Occupation Report Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers, July 2026)
Earnings in the Hampton Roads Workforce Region –
2026 wages for Welding, Cutter, Solderer, and Brazer careers:
Entry Level $48,500 – Mean $64,400 – Experienced $72,300