West-MEC in Phoenix is launching a new adult welding technology program at its southwest campus, providing students with hands-on training from industry experts. The program will cover various welding techniques such as thermal cutting, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, flux-core arc welding, and gas tungsten arc welding. Students who complete the 900-hour program can take a welding certification test.

West-MEC offers both daytime and nighttime classes for the welding program to accommodate students with flexible schedules. The total cost of tuition and other expenses for the program is $14,160. Superintendent Scott Spurgeon emphasized the importance of providing adult students with options for schooling hours to ensure their success in pursuing a new trade.

In addition to the welding program, West-MEC offers a total of 33 programs at 49 high schools in the Valley, giving students the opportunity to earn certifications and credits. The education center also offers adult programs in aviation maintenance technology, dental assisting, HVAC, IT security, pharmacy technician, and precision manufacturing. With only 31% of Arizona adults holding a degree beyond a high school diploma, West-MEC aims to provide pathways to higher paying jobs for Arizonans.

According to Spurgeon, the goal of West-MEC’s adult education programs is to equip the West Valley workforce with the necessary skills to meet industry demands and secure better-paying jobs. By developing skills through these programs