Tidewater Community College
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Virginia / Tidewater Community College
Tidewater Community College – Norfolk, VA
Program Information
Tidewater Community College (TCC) is one of Virginia’s largest providers of workforce and technical education, serving the Hampton Roads region with career-focused training in high-demand skilled trades. Through its Skilled Trades division, TCC offers comprehensive programs in HVAC, Plumbing, Welding, and Carpentry, each designed to prepare students for immediate employment in construction, industrial, and service-sector careers. The college is widely recognized for its modern facilities, applied learning model, and strong partnerships with local employers—including maritime industries, shipyards, contractors, and manufacturing companies that rely on graduates with job-ready technical skills.
The HVAC program trains students to install, repair, and maintain residential and commercial heating and cooling systems. Coursework covers refrigeration cycles, electrical components, air handling, system diagnostics, airflow measurement, and control systems. Students gain hands-on experience working with heat pumps, furnaces, rooftop units, and refrigeration equipment commonly used throughout Virginia’s coastal climate. The program prepares students for certifications such as EPA 608, positioning graduates for roles as HVAC installers, service technicians, and maintenance specialists.
The Welding program provides a strong foundation in multiple welding processes, including MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding. Students learn blueprint reading, joint design, fabrication techniques, and metal cutting while practicing in fully equipped welding labs. TCC’s curriculum aligns with American Welding Society (AWS) standards, and many students pursue certification testing, which enhances hiring potential in the region’s construction, shipbuilding, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
The Plumbing program introduces students to residential and commercial plumbing systems, water distribution, drainage, venting, gas piping, fixture installation, and plumbing code compliance. Through hands-on lab work, students practice assembling piping systems, diagnosing common plumbing issues, and safely using industry tools and equipment. Graduates often continue into registered apprenticeship programs or secure entry-level roles with plumbing contractors across Hampton Roads.
The Carpentry program teaches core construction skills, including framing, flooring systems, interior and exterior finishing, roofing, blueprint reading, and site safety. Students complete real-world build projects using industry-standard tools while developing the foundational skills needed for employment in construction, renovation, and carpentry trades.
Program Length
- Certificate programs: typically 1 year
- Associate degree programs: typically 2 years
- Programs include classroom instruction, lab training, and real-world project experience
Hands-On Training
Students receive extensive hands-on experience in fully equipped skilled-trade labs, including:
- Installation, diagnostics, and servicing of residential and commercial HVAC systems
- MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding processes, metal fabrication, and blueprint interpretation
- Plumbing system layout, pipe fitting, fixture installation, and troubleshooting
- Carpentry framing, drywall installation, roof systems, finishing work, and construction tool operation
- Training on industry-standard equipment used in construction, industrial repair, and facility maintenance
Program Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic math, reading, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to meet physical requirements for hands-on technical training
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Preparation for EPA 608, AWS welding certifications, and other industry-recognized credentials
- Career pathways include HVAC technician, welder, fabricator, plumber’s helper, construction laborer, or carpentry apprentice
- Strong employer partnerships throughout Hampton Roads support job placement and apprenticeship options
Location
Tidewater Community College
121 College Place
Norfolk, VA 23510
Serving students across the Hampton Roads region including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for Tidewater Community College (Norfolk, VA) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at Tidewater Community College. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.