The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree provides fundamentals of engineering technology, surveying, construction materials, soil testing, and computer-aided drafting (CAD), as well as environmental technology and fluid mechanics. Graduates are prepared for positions such as engineering technicians in varying civil engineering fields, such as land development, construction, transportation, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic systems, environmental engineering, structural design, surveying, geographic information systems, and similar roles.

The Associate of Applied Science degree is offered at the Portsmouth and Virginia Beach campuses and focuses on preparing students to work successfully in computer-aided design and related computer-aided manufacturing operations (CAD/CAM). Graduates typically find employment in the fields of mechanical and machine design, structural design, manufacturing, civil engineering, marine design, construction, and related areas. Using Autodesk software, students learn to prepare working drawings reflecting national and international standards, practices, and procedures. Additionally, students learn to prepare engineering drawings supporting mechanical engineering and design utilizing welding details, industrial piping, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, electrical schematics, sheet metal developments, and solid modeling. In addition to preparing students to move directly into business and industry and providing for college transfer opportunities upon graduation, the CADD program is designed to work in partnership with local business and industry to meet their educational and training needs.

Electromechanical Controls Technology programs prepare students for employment in a variety of industries, to include the following: industrial mechanical, electrical, electronic equipment repair; industrial automation installation, programming, and repair; electrical and mechanical equipment assembler; electromechanical and mechatronics systems technician; marine electrician; renewable energy technician; automated machinery maintenance mechanic; industrial automation and process controls technician. These programs also provide students with a comprehensive set of skills that employers seek when selecting technicians for their industry.

The Electronics Technology programs are designed to prepare students for entry into or continued employment in electronics. Graduates are prepared for positions such as communication, computer, electrical, or electronics technicians; electrical or electronics engineers; and similar roles. Under a formal articulation agreement with Old Dominion University (ODU), and with appropriate course substitutions, students may transfer course work into a related baccalaureate degree program. Students interested in transferring should see the program head early in their academic plan and consult ODU’s catalog, transfer guide, and website for additional information.

The Marine Diesel Technician program provides students with training on modern marine diesel engines and related systems. This program includes the diagnosis, and rebuilding of diesel engines. Also included in the program is the study of fuel injection systems, marine electrical, hydraulics, and marine maintenance mechanics. The Marine Diesel Technician program is a hands-on practical experience program. The student will study the unique requirements of marine mechanics, which includes basic nomenclature, construction and function of hulls, drive power principles, propellers, steering systems, controls, electrical equipment, instruments, and accessories.

The Career Studies Certificate in Electrical Wiring includes additional instruction in electrical theory and wiring methods.

The Career Studies Certificate in Electrical Wiring for Technicians provides classroom instruction - required by the Commonwealth of Virginia - to take the electrician licensing examination.

The Career Studies Certificate in Marine Electrical is focused on the maintenance and repair of shipboard electrical and electronic systems. Following completion of this program, individuals may seek employment as marine electricians.

The Career Studies Certificate in Marine Gasoline Engine Technology is designed for those planning to maintain, diagnose, and repair marine inboard and outboard engines and stern drive systems found in the commercial and pleasure boating industry.

The Career Studies Certificate in Marine Mechanical prepares students for a career in the maintenance and repair of shipboard mechanical systems. Following completion of this program, individuals may seek employment as marine mechanical technicians

The Career Studies Certificate in Maritime Welding prepares students for entry-level positions as maritime welders. While some welding skills are universal, this program will focus specifically on developing the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to obtain employment as a maritime welder.

The Career Studies Certificate in Mechatronics is aimed at those interested in the maintenance and repair of automation and process control systems. Individuals who complete this certificate may seek employment in machinery design, construction, and repair. They will also be prepared to take industry and manufacturer-specific certification exams for Mechatronics.

The Career Studies Certificate in Welding prepares students for immediate employment in a number of industrial environments, including shipyards, utilities, manufacturing firms, and oil refineries. Students are introduced to various types of equipment and materials used in welding. Successful completers may qualify as tack welders or as journeyman welders. Students qualifying as a journeyman may successfully pass the AW S Journeyman Certification tests.

The CADD Certificate program provides the student with basic skills and knowledge necessary for an entry-level position as a CAD operator or drafter. Business and industry professionals can update their skills and knowledge relating to: AutoCAD and Autodesk Software, current ANSI and ISO Standards and procedures, and improve their knowledge of material selection and processing for efficient design.

The Certificate in Electrical Wiring prepares students for employment as electricians and assists those already employed to upgrade their skills and knowledge for advancement in the field.

The Certificate in Electronics Engineering Technology prepares students for entry-level electronics technician positions or assists students with advancement within the field.

The Welding program prepares students for employment in the welding industry. Two tracks are offered: a general welding focus and a maritime welding focus. Graduates are provided education and training for environments such as shipyards, utilities, manufacturing, marine, and oil refineries. A moderate level of manual dexterity and an average mechanical aptitude are helpful. Prospective welding students should contact the Welding Department at 822-2004 for prior approval before enrolling.

Tidewater Community College offers a range of courses for the Maritime tradesperson. Specialty courses and courses to help workers enter the field of ship repair offer Certificates to add to the worker's training portfolio. Other, more in-depth, structured classes may lead to Associate's degrees in the Applied Sciences. Many of these courses are attended by Apprentices or employees already working in the ship yards. However, anyone interested in a ship repair career may begin by taking a few courses before seeking employment in order to better prepare themselves for a successful path to reaching journeyman, engineer or other professional level status. Find more info at: http://www.tccport.com/