Dec 15 2025
Registration is now open for two short-term welding training programs at New River Community College, Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).
Both programs are non-credit, and each is a one-week, six-session program. Students may enroll in the welding classes together or individually. All classes will be taught by NRCC Associate Professor of Welding Josh Graham on NRCC’s campus in Dublin in the welding lab.
Students in the GMAW, commonly known as MIG (Metal Inert Gas), program will learn methods and introductory print reading for welding. GMAW processes are used by industry, maintenance repair, and hobbyists. Spray transfer mode, short circuit, and metal art are competencies within the course. GMAW is fast and economical and is used for welding thin-gauge metal as well as heavy plate. Credential information includes American Welding Society Qualification for GMAW Welding. Test plates are inspected by a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
Students in the SMAW program, commonly called “stick welding,” will learn process, methods, and introductory blueprint reading for welding. The SMAW process is used by industry for fabrication and repair. This course is for personal interest, career exploration, or to add the SMAW method/qualification skillset.
Course schedules for the upcoming sessions are:
GMAW (MIG)- 6 sessions
January 12 – 17
Monday – Friday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
SMAW- 6 sessions
January 19 – 24
Monday – Friday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. and Saturday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
These courses are two of NRCC’s FastForward programs, programs that provide affordable, short-term training through the Office of Workforce Development. Virginia residents may qualify for special pricing.
To register for either course, visit www.nr.edu/fastforward, call (540) 674-3613, or email WFDtraining@nr.edu.
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