The Chesapeake College ESL Welding class has partnered with David Willey Welding Inc. to create a concurrent training class aimed at helping work eligible immigrants gain a recognized skilled trade certification, improve their Workplace English, and continue their studies toward earning full U.S. citizenship.
David Willey, the welding skills instructor and owner of David Willey Welding, has been instrumental in helping to recognize the priority needs of area welding companies…. David teaches specific welding techniques and provides connections to various employers by inviting them to visit the classroom and talk to the students.
The program is supported by both Federal and State Workforce grants that fall under the new Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA focuses on helping lower literacy and/ or Limited English Adults earn certifications in local high demand career fields simultaneously as they improve their Speaking, Reading, Writing, and Math and Civic skills.
Ten ESL participants have completed the initial 8 week welding course and are meeting for an intermediate course taught by David Willey. Chesapeake College currently offers concurrent training programs for ESL and Basic Education adults in Welding and CNA-Certified Nurse Assistant.
Chesapeake is developing similar courses in Culinary and in Early Childhood Teacher Certification. They also offer Workplace English classes for Landscape workers and Construction trades.
To learn more about Chesapeake College please visit http://www.chesapeake.edu. To learn more about David Willey Welding call 410-310-0788.