Welding Skills for Better-Paying Jobs: West-MEC Launches New Welding Program in Phoenix
The welding technology program at West-MEC in Phoenix is set to launch at its southwest campus, providing students with hands-on training from industry experts. The program will cover various welding techniques such as thermal cutting, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, flux-core arc welding, and gas tungsten arc welding. Students can choose between daytime classes over 60 weeks or nighttime classes over 81 weeks to accommodate their flexible schedules. Upon completion of the 900-hour program, students can take a welding certification test.
West-MEC offers a total of 33 programs at 49 high schools in the Valley, giving students the opportunity to earn certifications and credits. In addition to the welding program, the education center offers adult programs in aviation maintenance technology, dental assisting, HVAC, IT security, pharmacy technician, and precision manufacturing. With only 31% of Arizona adults holding a degree beyond a high school diploma, West-MEC aims to provide pathways to higher paying jobs for Arizonans.
According to Superintendent Scott Spurgeon, the goal of West-MEC’s adult education programs is to equip the West Valley workforce with the necessary skills to meet industry demands and secure better-paying jobs. By developing skills through these programs, students can become more confident
