The first and only welding education and testing facility in Ventura County to be accredited by the American Welding Society (AWS) is now officially open. A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held today at the new Welding and Testing Facility located at the Ventura County Office of Education’s Career Education Center in Camarillo. The opening is the culmination of years of planning and preparation to build a state-of-the-art facility that meets strict standards set by AWS and the state.
The opportunity to earn AWS certification at a local facility is a significant benefit for students in existing high school and community college welding programs, as well as current welders seeking to advance their careers. As an AWS Accredited Testing Facility (ATF), the center will allow successful weld test candidates to participate in the AWS Certified Welder Program, earning nationally recognized certifications and a listing in the AWS National Registry of Certified Welders. In addition to AWS certification, the new facility offers affordable, hands-on welding training for high school students and adult residents interested in pursuing welding careers.
“Our new facility will prepare aspiring welders for high-paying careers that allow them to put down roots in Ventura County and contribute to the local economy,” said Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. “This facility is a perfect example of education and industry partners coming together to provide tangible solutions for job seekers in our community.”
The grand opening event featured remarks by these dignitaries, followed by a welding demonstration and facility tour:
- Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
- Dr. Ramon Flores, Ventura County Board of Education Trustee and Navy Engineer
- Rebecca Evans, Executive Director, Workforce Development Board of Ventura County
- Anthony Mireles, Business Manager, Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local 585
Anyone interested in enrolling in welding courses or registering for certification testing can find all the information they need on the facility’s website at www.vcoe.org/welding.