About ATDM > FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Details

ATDM is a fast-track training program under the guidance and support of the Department of Defense with a focus on the naval shipbuilding and submarine sectors. Students train in one of the areas NAVSEA (Naval Sea Systems Command) has identified as skills gaps in the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB) and Defense Industrial Base (DIB): additive manufacturing, CNC machining, non-destructive testing (NDT), quality control inspection/metrology, and welding.

ATDM presently offers five skills areas: additive manufacturing, CNC machining, non-destructive testing (NDT), quality control inspection/metrology, and welding.

  • Additive Manufacturing: The additive manufacturing program trains students to six national certifications in Haas mill operations, Autodesk CAD, SME certified additive manufacturing fundamentals, and lean six sigma yellow belt qualifications, in addition to OSHA 10 general industry Summit training.
  • CNC Machining: The CNC machining program prepares and trains students to nationally recognized certifications in seven areas, including Haas and NIMS lathe, mill, CNC mill, NIMS turning, and OSHA 10 adherence.
  • Non-destructive Testing (NDT) is a testing and analysis technique used by the industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, structure, or system for characteristic differences or welding defects and discontinuities, without causing damage to the original part. NDT is also known as non-destructive examination (NDE), non-destructive inspection (NDI), and non-destructive evaluation (NDE). All coursework will meet Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) non-destructive testing requirements, as complemented by the American Society of Nondestructive Testing requirements.
  • Quality Control Inspection/Metrology: trains students in quality control areas such as Mitutoyo MSCOMOS C1, NIMS inspector qualification, and OSHA 10 general industry standards.
  • Welding: The welding program prepares and trains students to American Welding Society standards in 10 nationally recognized certifications, including flux core, MIG, TIG, and OSHA 10 construction adherence.

The U.S. Navy recognizes that new construction and the maintenance of ships and submarines has not kept pace with the need to defend our country. The quality and number of existing shipbuilding trade skill pipelines are insufficient to meet the current and future demand. ATDM is a large part of the Navy’s remedial efforts in the areas of sustainment, new construction, improved presence, capability, and readiness.

Admissions to the ATDM program requires that the individual:

  • Be seeking employment within the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB);
  • Be 18 years old at the time of enrollment;
  • Be a high school graduate or have earned a GED;
  • Be a U.S. Citizen or residing in the U.S. with a Work Visa allowing the person to live and work permanently in the U.S.;
  • Have the ability to pass a drug screening and background check for employment;
  • Have access to the internet and email address to complete application materials and acceptance documents online and
  • Willingness to relocate for training and/or employment.

If you answered “no” to any of these questions and are still interested, please call 434-766-6680 to discuss options.

The ATDM program is 600 hours, approximately four months.

The ATDM program is located in Danville, Virginia, which is on the Virginia/North Carolina border.

We have nationally recognized credentials for each program area. Every student who enrolls will have the opportunity to apply for certifications.

This is intermediate-level training; no prerequisites or job experience is necessary to apply.

Yes! ATDM trains adults with varied backgrounds who are interested in working in the Defense Industrial Base.

Speak with your commanding officer or unit advisor. ATDM trains both active duty and SkillBridge eligible individuals.

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, educational levels, previous employment and skills, and locations nationwide. The common thread is a commitment to the Program, dedication to the academic and laboratory workload, the ability to work within teams, and a dedication to excel. Students with those attributes will be successful. ATDM instructors are among the best in the industry, and the ATDM support staff for students is first-rate.

Absolutely. During the duration of your coursework, the staff will assist you with recommendations on potential DIB/SIB employers, which companies are hiring in your specific skill area, and where those facilities are located. They will also assist with resume and interview preparation, and sponsor industry visits to the school’s facilities.

Students have the opportunity to earn multiple industry certifications in the Program. They are listed on this website under Programs & Faculty.

Presently, the training facilities are located in Danville, VA.

Application & Career Opportunities

The ATDM staff will offer job placement assistance with companies in the defense manufacturing community.