Students in the welding high school and adult programs at the Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center (GACTC) completed testing in May 2022 for several American Welding Society (AWS) certifications.

GACTC students in the high school and adult welding program had the opportunity to achieve 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.

Ten high school students participated in the certification testing; 9 of the high school students earned the SMAW 3G, one student earned the FCAW certification, and one student earned the GMAW. Fourteen adult students participated in the AWS certification testing; 11 earned the SMAW certification, 12 earned the FCAW certification, and 6 students earned the GMAW 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 and adult Welding with Print Reading diploma programs are coordinated and instructed by Tim Harris, AWS Certified Welding Inspector.