Written by Meagan Chappell
Dating back to 1886, the Hampton Roads area continuously plays an integral part in the welding industry. Hampton Roads is known for housing the largest industrial employer in Virginia, the largest shipbuilding company in the United States and one of the largest natural ports with great shipyards. The area is also known for its large military presence and is home to many industries that need welders to produce equipment and complete repairs.
One local ship yard is the nation’s sole designer, builder and refueler of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and one of only two shipyards capable of designing and building nuclear- powered submarines, making Hampton Roads a hub for maritime welders.
These local companies rely heavily on the skills welders provide:
- Huntington Ingalls Industry Inc. (Newport News Shipbuilding)
- AMSEC Corporation
- BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair
- CMA-CGM America, Inc.
- Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc.
- Earl Industries LLC
- East Coast Repair & Fabrication, LLC
- Lyon Shipyard, Inc.
- Maersk Line, Limited
- Norfolk Naval Shipyard
- Q.E.D. Systems, Inc.
- Tecnico Corporation
Maritime welders work in manufacturing facilities, under water, and on bridges. Job opportunities in this industry allow you to work all over the world, performing welding on barges and ships in all coastal areas. 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.
To get the training you need to pursue a career in welding, Contact (757) 858-8324 or visit https://tidewatertechtrades.edu/.
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, and job placement assistance. Learn more at tidewatertechtrades.edu.
