Virginia’s economy and employers are seeking the best and brightest future workers, especially for highly sought-after careers in IT, advanced manufacturing and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Will you have the credentials, education and training you need to secure one of these high-paying and highly rewarding job opportunities? GO TEC is here to help. Training programs are available for each of the following focus areas—connecting students and future workers with high-quality training partners and employers.
Empowering Tomorrow's Workforce Today
Advanced Materials
Do you enjoy studying the pressure and temperature thresholds at which materials bend, break and burn before losing their properties? Are you interested in how advanced materials are processed and characterized? The research and production of innovative materials are critical to supporting the advanced manufacturing field and offers significant career growth. High-tech companies depend on the development and advancement of innovative materials in chemical, polymer, plastics, rubber, fiber and other specialty, high-tech material industries.
IT / Cybersecurity
If you have a knack for computers and technology, consider a career in IT and cybersecurity. These fields offer lucrative income potential and opportunities for advancement. Plus, Virginia companies are always seeking solution providers to help support and enable industries as they operate globally. Explore how you can learn the skills to help sustain and protect businesses’ information technology, logistics, distribution, data centers and back office support. All of these areas are heavily dependent on technology and critical to the longevity and health of industries.
Precision Machining
Hands-on interaction with cutting-edge equipment offers exciting career opportunities in the growing field of precision machining. If you enjoy the thought of working with metal in a high-performance manufacturing environment, this may be the career for you. The field combines leading-edge CNC machining and metrology technology with high-tech manufacturing skills. A renowned training model produces highly skilled and credentialed workers ready to support aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, precision automation companies and more.
Robotics, Automation and Mechatronics
Are you intrigued by the science and technology behind robotic and automated machines and systems? Robotics, automation and mechatronics is an ideal career for the ever-curious mind—and it offers rewarding career opportunities with high pay. These engineers work with both electrical and mechanical systems—from installation and configuration to programming and troubleshooting. With the advent of industry 4.0, advanced manufacturers rely more and more on these systems for enhanced efficiency, accuracy and production yield.
Welding
Do you enjoy the satisfaction of fabricating or repairing parts and other items useful to the workplace? Welders can use hand-welding or flame-cutting equipment to join metal components or finish fabricated products. There are countless manufacturing industries seeking highly skilled welders at competitive salaries. With the proper training, equipment and skillset, welders can set themselves up for a life of success. Explore the various welding career fields and the many opportunities to support growing industries in need of this critical service.
Career Connections
Not sure which career path is right for you? For those in middle school, take advantage of our Career Connections class. Students explore all career clusters and spend special time on those relevant to the above GO TEC career sectors. Each unit focuses on a different focus sector and provides hands-on activities. Equipment comparable to what is found in a real industry setting is used to provide a true-to-life experience.