The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) – As high school seniors across the region prepare for graduation, Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is excited to unveil a newly updated Welding Program that promises to shape the next generation of skilled welders. Launching this fall, the revamped
program offers students more hands-on experience than ever before, alongside a flexible learning schedule designed to accommodate those balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Leading this effort is Walt Johnson, the Welding Program Head at MGCC, who brings with him over 35 years of experience in both the welding industry and as a welding educator. Prior to his appointment at Mountain Gateway, Johnson served as the Director of Career and Technical Education at Byers Technical Institute in Buena Vista. Since joining MGCC in August 2024, Johnson has worked diligently to overhaul the curriculum, ensuring it meets the latest industry standards and equips students with the practical skills necessary to excel in this in-demand field.
Welding is a crucial skill relied upon across numerous industries, from manufacturing to construction to energy. With the demand for skilled welders continuing to grow, now is the perfect time to pursue a career in welding. The updated program at MGCC prepares students to meet this demand with an industry-relevant curriculum that focuses on safety, modern welding techniques, and specialized skills like pipe welding.
The program’s hands-on approach ensures that students spend more time in the lab perfecting their welding techniques, giving them the practical experience that employers require. With the flexibility to attend either full-time or part-time, MGCC’s program accommodates the needs of
students juggling work and family obligations.
The Welding Program at Mountain Gateway offers multiple certificate tracks, including the Fundamentals of Welding (Level 1) Career Studies Certificate, the Industrial/Structural Welding (Level 2) Certificate, and the Pipe Welding Certificate. These certificates provide students with the qualifications needed to pursue high-paying, stable careers. The program is also eligible for G3 funding, making education more affordable for those who qualify.
With the demand for skilled welders expected to rise, particularly in specialized areas such as pipe welding, graduates of the program can look forward to excellent job opportunities and competitive salaries.
“We have been working with local and out-of-area employers across the country to ensure that our students are qualified to enter the Construction, Fabrication, and Manufacturing industries at the journeyman level,” Johnson said. The journeyman level translates to a well-paying career
immediately after graduation.
For further information about the Welding Program, contact Walt Johnson, Welding Program Head via email at wjohnson@mgcc.edu or call Student Services at 540-863-2820.
Fall registration begins on April 1.
