Registration Now Open for 2026 Welding Training Program Through VersAbility TECH

VersAbility Resources is seeking inquiries from students looking to register for its 2026 Welding Training Program, a core offering of VersAbility TECH (Train, Educate, Certify, Hire), a first-of-its-kind workforce development initiative designed to prepare people with disabilities alongside people of all abilities for high-demand, industry-recognized careers in welding and advanced manufacturing.

The welding program is part of VersAbility TECH’s growing portfolio of employer-aligned training pathways that support careers in shipbuilding, manufacturing, logistics and related skilled trades.

Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, participants gain industry-recognized skills that lead to meaningful employment and long-term career advancement.

The six-month training program, divided into two semesters, runs Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the New Horizons Regional Education Centers – Butler Farm Campus in Hampton. Students can earn certifications in SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), ARC I, ARC II, AWS D1.1.

Adults of all abilities 18 and older are encouraged to inquire.

“When we invest in training like welding for people with disabilities, we’re doing more than teaching a trade, we’re opening doors to purpose, independence and long-term opportunity,” said Casey Roberts, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Development of VersAbility Resources. “These programs equip individuals with marketable, in-demand skills that can truly change the trajectory of their lives, while also helping meet the critical workforce needs of Hampton Roads. Our region depends on skilled welders, and VersAbility TECH ensures that talent exists in places that have too often been overlooked.”

Community leaders recognize the value in this training and impact it can make on the economic development of the entire region. VersAbility Resources recently announced that TowneBank made a transformational $500,000 investment to accelerate the expansion of VersAbility TECH, helping grow the training footprint into what will eventually become a 75,000-square-foot workforce training center.

For full welding program details and inquiry information, go here.