The Early Career Program is a partnership between Newport News Public Schools and Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC). The program is designed for high school seniors who plan to pursue a vocational certificate after they graduate from high school. The program provides an opportunity for high school seniors to pursue certification that will open employment opportunities in the skilled trades industry immediately following graduation. This program requires a minimum of 15 participants annually and may not be offered if enrollment does not meet this requirement.
Who is eligible?
- Students who have completed all SOL requirements needed for the standard diploma prior to the start of senior year.
- Students who are able to complete all high school standard diploma requirements by the end of the first semester of their senior year.
- Students are able to matriculate to the welding program after completing the full year of English 12 and US Government during their senior year. Students may complete these courses through an online curriculum.
What are the benefits?
- Qualify for a high paying welding career in five months. (Average starting wages $22-$30/hr)
- Receive concentrated hands-on welding training in an accelerated learning environment from the region’s best welding instructors.
- Job placement support is provided throughout the program.
- Small, interactive classes allowing welding instructors to provide individual attention to trainees.
- Families receive drastically discounted rate for the full welding certification program.
For additional information visit the Early Career in Welding website.
