Overview
Our programs are ready to get you trained quickly and aligned with the credential that is right for you! The programs below will allow you to accelerate forward down the path to enhance and help with a new career. Programs marked with a 
are eligible for the FastForward program.
Jump to Programs:
How to Enroll
To enroll in one of our Advanced Manufacturing & Skilled Trades programs:
- Get added to our list for notifications and to be screened for available funding by completing our Program Interest and Funding Assistance form.
- Complete the onboarding and financial assistance process to be officially enrolled in the program. Your Career Navigator will guide you through this. Please be aware that this can take up to a month.
Machining Programs
Machining Fundamentals I & II
Machining Fundamentals I and II are foundational for the study of metals formation methods, processes, related equipment, and tools of industry. It requires the student to understand shop safety practices, job planning, math and measurement for precision machining, interpreting drawings, machining feeds and speeds, precision measuring instruments, layout tools and procedures, hand tools and bench work, metal cutting saws and drilling machines. Students must be registered for both Machining Fundamentals I and II.
Machining: Milling Operator
The Machining – Milling Operator course is a hands-on course where you will learn the fundamentals of using a milling machine in a manufacturing environment. You will learn part set up, drilling, taping, boring, cutting keyways and other operations as well as basic CNC program editing. Instruction will also include shop safety, math and measurement for precision machining, and how to interpret drawings, including views, notations, symbols, dimensioning and tolerances. Credentials: Students completing the course will sit for the NIMS (National Institute of Metalworking Skills) CNC Milling: Operator, Level 1 exam.
Machining: Turning Operator
The Machining – Turning Operator course offers instruction on both manual and CNC operated lathes. You will learn facing, turning, drilling, turning angles and other operations as well as basic CNC program editing. Also included in instruction is machining math, Blueprint reading, and dimensioning and toleranceing. Credentials: Students completing the course will sit for the NIMS (National Institute of Metalworking Skills) Level 1 Turning Operator exam. Successful completion of the course and credential, along with completion of the Machining-Milling course and credential will qualify students for entry-level machinist jobs with a beginning salary of $15-$20 per hour.
Advanced Machining
The Machining – Advanced course is a culmination of the VWCC Workforce Machining Program series. Emphasis is placed on CNC G-Code and Conversational Programming. Includes Setup and Operations to produce parts using ProtoTrak Mills and Lathes, Haas Mini Mill with Automatic Tool Changer, and Fanuc and Haas Simulators. Credentials: Students completing the course will sit for the NIMS (National Institute of Metalworking Skills) credentials CNC Milling: Programming Setup & Operations and CNC Turning: Programming Setup & Operations.
Trades Programs
Construction Core Skills
Get started in a career in construction! No prior experience required. Learn basic skills such as construction safety, construction math, introduction to construction hand and power tools and their use, introduction to construction drawings, communication skills, employability skills, and introduction to material handling. Get ready to work by learning skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and effective self-presentation. Call today and let’s work toward new skills, an industry (NCCER) credential, and a new job.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Want to work outside? Get in the driver’s seat and build your future as an in-demand heavy equipment operator! Experience what it’s like to operate a bulldozer and excavator in our high-tech Caterpillar Simulators! Earn the Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1 credential in just 16 weeks of online classes and 44 hours in the seat of a CAT simulator. Invest in yourself and improve your earning potential! Core and Level 1 must be taken at the same time.
Basic Contractor’s Pre-Licensing Class
This is a pre-licensing class for a Class A, B, or C Contractor’s license in Virginia. This 8-hour course is designed to provide a basic look at the statutes and regulations that govern contractor licensing in Virginia, including a review of the different types of licenses available and the qualifications for each, including Standards of Practice, Prohibited Acts and How to Avoid Violations of the Regulations. After successfully passing this course, students are qualified to take the PSI test for licensure. Students must schedule the PSI test directly with PSI Examination Services. This course has been approved by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), Board for Contractors.
Tradesman License Renewal: Electrical, Gas, HVAC, & Plumbing
The VA Board of Contractors requires journeymen, master plumbers, electricians, HVAC mechanics and gas fitters to take continuing education hours specific to their trade as part of the licensing process. Those renewing a license must take continuing education in their respective profession:
- Plumbers, HVAC technicians and electricians must take 3 hours of CE in their field.
- Gas fitters must take 1 hour: the 1-hour class for gas-fitters is intended for journeymen and master gas fitters, liquified petroleum and natural gas fitters.
Each course covers new definitions, code changes, general requirements, impact on the job, general use of and special equipment included in the respective codes.
Welding Programs
Welding – FCAW
Students will learn Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW) methods. FCAW processes allow for high quality, versatility, out-of-position welding capability. FCAW processes are used by manufacturers, industry and in construction. Credentials: If successful, students will earn an American Welding Society Qualification and D1.1 Structural Bridge Code for FCAW welding methods. Upon course completion, welding coupons will be inspected by a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
Welding – GMAW
Students will learn Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) methods. GMAW processes are used by industry, maintenance repair and hobbyists. GMAW is fast and economical and is used for welding thin-gauge metal as well as heavy plate. Credentials: If successful, students will earn an American Welding Society Qualification for GMAW welding methods. Upon course completion, welding coupons will be inspected by a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).