October 16, 2024

Eleven graduates recognized at R-CCC Weld to Work Program

 

AHOSKIE, NC –Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) held a Weld to Work graduation ceremony on Oct. 9 on campus. Graduates recognized during the event included Jayden Bell, Aaron Brooks, Keonte' Coatney, Tyrique Edwards, Nigel Fairclough, Calvin Harrell, Keivon Harrell, Steven Harris, Christian Morris, Morris Shear and Leopold Vidal.

Welding Instructor Michael Johnson acknowledged the Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC) grant in assisting students to earn a welding credential. He also detailed some of the different facets of workforce training that students learn in the program. “We want you to be able to get a job and keep it,” said Johnson. “We’re trying to give you all the best opportunity to move forward.”

Earlier this year, R-CCC received a $282,415 grant through HRWC to expand the short-term job training program, Weld to Work, which is a six-week certification course. The grant provided building improvements, equipment, a full-time instructor, supplies and materials, and scholarships for up to 100 welding students.

“You all are the future. This trade has been good to me,” said Kentwan Smallwood, who also instructs in the program. “We’ve given you the basic tools and skills to get you to your next level.”

Average hourly wages for skilled welders range from entry level $17-26/hour up to $35 an hour for top-earning pipeline welders, which means they can earn a total of more than $72,000 per year, at 40 hours per week, in NC and Virginia.

"Congratulations to the graduates of the Weld to Work program. Their hard work and dedication have equipped them with valuable skills that will open doors to a rewarding career. Thanks to the support of our instructors and the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, our graduates can seize opportunities ahead," said R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams.

For information about future Weld to Work sessions or other R-CCC programs, visit roanokechowan.edu or call 252-862-1200.

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission
Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243