Tidewater Tech continues to provide training in skilled trades fields so graduates have the opportunity for employment in essential careers. Trades never stop.
Written by Jul DeGeus
The United States has experienced the suspending of “non-essential” career markets in order to decelerate the circulation of COVID-19. With this deferral, select occupations have been declared essential workers, or those who perform services that are essential to continue vital foundation operations in communities, cities, and states. Some of Virginia’s essential businesses have included trades focused industries such as automotive repair and home improvement facilities. Tidewater Tech’s training programs provides individuals with education that leads to an essential career path. Below are the four essential trades programs offered at Tidewater Tech:
Tidewater Tech’s Automotive Technician program provides the skills in automotive repair to work as an entry-level Auto Technician. Instruction topics include electrical and electronic systems; heating and air conditioning systems; brake systems; suspension and steering systems; engine diagnosis and repair; automatic and manual transmissions; and Vehicle Safety Inspection test preparation.
The Building Maintenance and Repair program offers many entry-level career opportunities in the residential, apartment, and hotel industry for maintenance and repair professionals. These maintenance facility positions require skills related to structural, mechanical, and electrical applications. Develop hands-on skills in air-conditioning, heating systems, and electrical theory along with flooring; general building repairs; plumbing; and building codes. Students will have the opportunity to study and receive the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) refrigerant transition certification prior to graduation.
Individuals who enjoy working with their hands, machines, and metals should consider the Combination Welding program. Industry uses welding to make automobiles, ships, home appliances, bridges, buildings, and other structures. New welding processes and methods are opening new career areas in electron beams, lasers, and ultrasonic wave applications, which require highly technical equipment and skills.
As an approved AWS Accredited Testing Facility, one of only four approved facilities in the state of Virginia, Tidewater Tech students have the opportunity to graduate certified in the following welding positions: Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW) in 3G and 4G positions; Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW ) in 2G, 3G and 4G positions; Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) in 3G and 4G positions. In addition, existing welders can maintain their AWS certification in Pipe Welding in 6G positions or receive their AWS certification at Tidewater Tech.
The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program teaches mechanical and electrical applications in residential and light commercial Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR). Students receive practical hands-on instruction in Air Conditioning, Heating Systems, Residential and Commercial Refrigeration, Heat Pumps, Hydronics and many other areas. They’ll also have the opportunity to take the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification and the Industry Competency Examination (ICE).
For more information on Tidewater Tech’s programs, call 757.858.8324 or visit tidewatertechtrades.edu. Tidewater Tech is located at 4535 East Princess Anne Road Norfolk, VA 23502.
About Tidewater Tech
Tidewater Tech is a career training school that specializes in trade vocations including Auto Technician, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Building Maintenance and Repair and Welding. The school offers professional facilities, knowledgeable instructors, day or evening classes, job placement assistance, and is accredited by the Commission of the Council of Occupational Education (COE). Tidewater Tech is certified to Operate by SCHEV. Learn more at tidewatertechtrades.edu or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TidewaterTech.edu/.
