.jpg)
As high school seniors across the region prepare for graduation, Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) is excited to unveil a newly updated welding program that promises to shape the next generation of skilled welders.
Launching this fall, the revamped program offers students more handson experience than ever before, alongside a flexible learning schedule designed to accommodate those balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Leading this effort is Walt Johnson, the welding program head at MGCC, who brings with him over 35 years of experience in both the welding industry and as a welding educator. Prior to his appointment at Mountain Gateway, Johnson served as the director of career and technical education at Byers Technical Institute in Buena Vista. Since joining MGCC in August 2024, Johnson has worked to overhaul the curriculum, ensuring it meets the latest industry standards and equips students with the practical skills necessary to excel in this in-demand field.
Welding is a crucial skill relied upon across numerous industries, from manufacturing to construction to energy. With the demand for skilled welders continuing to grow, now is the perfect time to pursue a career in welding, said Johnson. The updated program at MGCC prepares students to meet this demand with an industry-relevant curriculum that focuses on safety, modern welding techniques, and specialized skills like pipe welding.
The welding program at Mountain Gateway offers multiple certificate tracks, including the Fundamentals of Welding (Level 1) Career Studies Certificate, the Industrial/Structural Welding (Level 2) Certificate, and the Pipe Welding Certificate. The program is also eligible for G3 funding, making education more affordable for those who qualify.
“We have been working with local and out-of-area employers across the country to ensure that our students are qualified to enter the construction, fabrication, and manufacturing industries at the journeyman level,” Johnson said.
For further information about the welding program, contact Johnson via email at [email protected] or call Student Services at (540) 8632820.
