Students in the Welding high school and adult programs at the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center (GACTC) completed testing in May 2023 for several American Welding Society (AWS) certifications.

GACTC students in the high school and adult welding programs had the opportunity to achieve up to three certifications from AWS including GMAW 2G, SMAW 3G, and FCAW 3G. The GACTC is an Accredited Test Facility through AWS. These certifications are valued by regional employers.

Six adult students participated in the AWS certification testing; five earned the SMAW 3G certification, six earned the FCAW 3G certification, and four students earned the GMAW 2G certification. Nine high school students participated in the certification testing; nine of the high school students earned the SMAW 3G and two students earned the FCAW 3G certification.

“The acquisition of the AWS certifications allow our students to show their commitment to a career in welding and provides additional opportunities for them as they start their careers,” commented Nicole Zernick, Assistant Director of the GACTC.

The high school Welding Technology program and adult Welding with Print Reading diploma program are coordinated and primarily instructed by Tim Harris, AWS Certified Welding Inspector. To learn about these programs, please contact us at (814) 941-8324.