FCHS welding program earns state recognition

FCHS welding program earns state recognition
A student welds a clean angle. Photo courtesy of Economic Development Authority of Floyd County.

The Floyd County High School welding program has earned the Virginia Department of Education's Creating Excellence Award for Region 6. This accolade celebrates the program's long-standing excellence in providing students with valuable career and technical skills.

Under the leadership of instructor Doug Thompson, the welding program has become a cornerstone of career and technical education at Floyd County High School. The program equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience to pursue successful careers in the welding industry. Experiential learning opportunities include local job shadowing and community service fabrication projects such as the public bike racks on South Locust Street and North Main Street.

A partnership with New River Community College lets students earn dual-enrollment credits while mastering essential welding techniques. Students in the program have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, making them highly sought-after by employers upon graduation.

The state-level recognition highlights the program's consistent success in preparing students for the workforce. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and relevant, aligning with current industry standards and demands. This commitment to quality has established the Floyd County High School welding program as a model for others in the Commonwealth.