NEW CLASS — West Virginia Northern Community College is offering a new welding class as part of its continuing education programs. -- Contributed

WHEELING — West Virginia Northern Community College will offer a new series of short-term, evening welding courses through its Continuing Education and Workforce Development Department on the Wheeling campus.

Designed for working adults and individuals seeking a fast, flexible way to gain in-demand skills, these hands-on classes provide a condensed path to entry-level welding experience without the time commitment of a full degree program. The practical curriculum focuses on industry-relevant welding techniques and is offered in the evenings to support students who are balancing work, family, or other daytime priorities.

“We know our region needs skilled tradespeople — and welding remains among the most in-demand trades,” said Karri Mulhern, vice president of continuing education and workforce development at WVNCC. “By offering short-term evening classes we are providing flexible, accessible and high-quality pathways for anyone who wants to build a career in welding. Whether you’re new to welding, reskilling, or seeking industry credentials, Northern is here to help students succeed.”

Beginning Jan. 28, WVNCC will offer four hands-on evening welding courses on the Wheeling Campus: MIG I, MIG II, SMAW I and TIG I. All classes will run Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. through April 18. Each course provides extensive practice in multiple welding positions along with preparation for end-of-course certification testing.

In addition to short-term training, WVNCC offers a one-year certificate in welding and a two-year associate of applied science degree in welding technology. These academic programs offer comprehensive training in multiple welding processes, blueprint reading, welding safety and materials fundamentals.

WVNCC is also an American Welding Society accredited test facility, enabling both students and professional welders to take official AWS certification exams on the Wheeling Campus. This nationally recognized certification opens the door to higher-level employment opportunities in structural steel, pipelines, fabrication and more. Those interested can learn more and register at wvncc.edu; call (304) 214-8968; or email the college at ConEd@wvncc.edu.