The Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW / Stick) Program delivers foundational, hands-on workshop training in electric arc welding processes used throughout structural steel construction, heavy equipment repair, industrial piping, and manufacturing. Delivering up to 75 hours of combined classroom instruction and laboratory practice, this course prepares trainees to earn industry-recognized AWS SMAW 3G Qualification in up to three test positions alongside OSHA-10 Safety Certification.
Program at a Glance
| Program Aspect | Details |
| Award / Credential | FastForward Workforce Credential / AWS SMAW 3G Qualification |
| Instructional Hours | Up to 75 Hours (Lecture & Hands-On Workshop Labs) |
| Industry Certifications | AWS SMAW 3G Qualification (Up to 3 tests) + OSHA-10 Certification |
| Included in Tuition | OSHA-10 training, all instructional materials, and AWS testing fees |
| Funding Eligibility | FastForward Eligible (Pays 2/3 of tuition for eligible VA residents) |
| Prerequisites | Mandatory attendance at safety orientation; personal PPE required |
| Career Coach | Robin Jennings — rjennings@mgcc.edu | (540) 863-2899 |
💰 FastForward Financial Assistance Available — Pay Only 1/3 Tuition
Qualifying Virginia residents can receive FastForward state funding, which covers two-thirds of the tuition cost for this high-demand skilled trade credential. Contact our FastForward Career Coach to verify eligibility and register.
What You Will Learn
Trainees master foundational stick-welding fundamentals and metal joining techniques in a fully equipped welding laboratory:
- Power Sources & Polarity: Understand AC and DC power source operation, welding polarities, heat settings, and machine setup.
- Electrode Selection & Flux Fundamentals: Learn proper electrode classification (e.g., E6010, E7018), flux chemistry, and wire selection for joining various metal alloys.
- Joint Design & All-Position Welding: Practice running consistent beads, butt joints, and fillet welds across flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
- OSHA-10 Safety & Shop Rules: Complete mandatory OSHA-10 safety training, covering tool/equipment safety, hazard identification, and workshop ventilation.
- AWS 3G Qualification Testing: Prepare for and sit for official AWS 3G vertical performance qualification testing (up to three tests included in tuition).
Required Safety Gear & Attire Policies
Safety is paramount in the MGCC welding lab. All participants must attend the mandatory safety orientation and adhere strictly to dress code standards:
Required Student-Provided Gear:
- Footwear: Heavy-duty leather work boots (steel-toe recommended).
- Apparel: 100% natural fiber clothing (cotton or denim jeans, non-synthetic long-sleeve shirts).
- Eye Protection: ANSI-approved safety glasses with side shields.
- Hand Tools: Personal hand tools as specified by the instructor during class orientation.
Strictly Prohibited Attire:
- 🚫 No synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon, fleece, or rayon blends).
- 🚫 No shorts, capris, or frayed pants.
- 🚫 No open-toed shoes, sandals, flip-flops, or canvas sneakers.
🥽 Provided Shop Equipment: #10 shade welding helmets, welding jackets, and leather welding gloves are available for student use, though trainees are welcome to bring their own personal protective equipment if preferred.
Career Opportunities
Shielded Metal Arc Welding remains one of the most versatile and durable welding processes across field construction, maintenance, and structural fabrication.
Potential Career Pathways:
- Structural Steel & Field Welder
- Construction & Bridge Welder
- Industrial Maintenance & Repair Welder
- Heavy Equipment Repair Specialist
- Welding Apprentice / Assembly Specialist
Program Registration & Contact
Ready to earn your AWS Stick welding qualification or check your FastForward eligibility? Contact our Workforce Career Coach:
Robin Jennings — FastForward Career Coach
Phone: (540) 863-2899 | Email: rjennings@mgcc.edu
Office Location: Backels Hall, Clifton Forge Campus
MGCC Student Services Suite
Phone: (540) 863-2820 | Email: admissions@mgcc.edu
Location: Backels Hall, First Floor (Clifton Forge Campus)