WVNCC receives $50,000 grant from the EQT Foundation

West Virginia Northern Community College receives $50,000 grant from the EQT Foundation to provide tuition for students.

West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) has received a $50,000 grant from the EQT Foundation. EQT’s generous gift will provide student tuition assistance for the College’s new Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program and Summer Welding Institute.

With this grant, students who qualify can earn their CDL license or a Welding certificate for free at WVNCC. State funding is also available for those who don’t qualify. This grant provides last dollar funding, meaning it will pay for any tuition and fees not already covered by other sources.

“There is such a high demand in our region for CDL drivers and welders, but students who have a desire to enter these fields may not be able to do so because they do not qualify for traditional sources of financial aid,” commented Dr. Daniel Mosser, president of WVNCC. “With this grant, EQT is removing financial hurdles and will provide these students with a great career and family income. We are eternally grateful for EQT’s commitment and support for our College and our community.”

“The need and opportunity in both of these industries will provide amazing pathways toward sustainable careers for West Virginians,” said Ellen Rossi, president of the EQT Foundation.  “At EQT, we are committed to our philanthropic efforts and helping communities thrive by providing tools, resources, and education across our operational footprint. We are honored to partner with West Virginia Northern to offer this wonderful initiative.”

The next CDL class at WVNCC starts February 21, and runs for five weeks. The course is designed to prepare students for a Class A commercial driver’s license. In addition to three weeks of road and range training, the course also includes of two weeks of in-class training to obtain a valid CDL-learner permit. Classes are currently being held in Weirton and Wheeling with plans to offer classes on the New Martinsville campus soon.

WVNCC will offer its Welding Institute June 3 – August 27. The Summer Welding Institute is designed to provide the skills necessary to enter the workforce immediately upon completion. Certificates can be awarded in OSHA 10 General Industry and students will have the opportunity to test for welding certifications in SMAW vertical and 3 position plate welds, MIG plate welds, and pipe welds depending on each individual’s ability and progression in the courses.

“These careers are so vital to the Ohio Valley and our region,” added Dr. Phil Klein, vice president of Economic & Workforce Development. “These classes are likely to fill up, so I encourage everyone to register early and take advantage of this amazing opportunity provided by EQT.”

To register for these classes and to inquire for more information about funding visit wvncc.coursestorm.com or email ConEd@wvncc.edu.