Skilled tradesmen are the backbone of countless industries, turning vision into reality with hands-on expertise. However, a growing focus on conventional STEM careers has pushed many people to overlook the trades, resulting in a critical shortage of skilled craftsmen.

The Las Vegas Institute of Welding (LVIW), a woman-owned small business, opens doors to successful careers in skilled trades. It offers comprehensive welding courses that prepare students for long-term success.

LVIW’s owner and CEO Gabrielle “Brie” Roper has been around the welding and fabrication industry most her life, working alongside her husband, holding ownership, management, and leadership positions in their fabrication and metal finishing companies in Southern Nevada. She realized that finding and retaining qualified welders and fabricators remained a persistent industry challenge. LVIW was founded to address this shortage. It offers courses covering techniques like stick welding, metal inert gas and dual shield. It nurtures individual potential through practical instruction and connects students to successful career opportunities.

“We open doors for individuals to get their foot in the welding trade and start building a successful career,” says Eric Roper, Founder.

LVIW’s program offers recognized welding certifications from the American Welding Society, equipping learners with official endorsements. Students also earn essential certifications that emphasize workplace safety and readiness, including OSHA 10, forklift operation and CPR.

At the heart of the program is a clear goal to help students obtain reliable jobs that pay well. While the school follows a state-approved curriculum, the doors stay open for continuous learning. Graduates can return to practice welding techniques or prepare for upcoming interviews. It creates a supportive environment where opportunity meets acceptance, fostering growth.

  • We open doors for individuals to get their foot in the welding trade and start building a successful career.


LVIW regularly participates in career fairs and events hosted by high schools. It also works with over 250 companies in the community for job placements. The results are visible, with many students having secured positions in unions and the private sector. Alums who have advanced to lead crews for global steel companies are a testament to the fact that skilled trades can lead individuals to great career paths.

Over the years, LVIW has become an essential part of the local community, welcoming students from all walks of life, including those from challenging backgrounds. In partnership with Hope for Prisoners, a nonprofit dedicated to helping formerly incarcerated individuals, LVIW established a welding training facility inside the Southern Desert Correctional Center. Inmates receive hands-on instruction to develop welding skills. This program facilitates their transition back into society and addresses the significant barrier of finding employment after serving a sentence.

Its efforts extend beyond the prison walls, actively collaborating with local high schools to reach out to youth at risk of dropping out or facing limited career options. By equipping these individuals with trade skills, LVIW provides alternatives to traditional academic paths.

Recognizing that the work can be demanding, LVIW chooses students who are passionate about welding, demonstrate enthusiasm and are willing to put in the hard hours. Rather than coaxing students to join the program, it focuses on honest enthusiasm, supported by word of mouth and community involvement. These efforts have led to steady attendance numbers and successful job placement figures.

LVIW transforms skills into careers, empowering individuals to build brighter futures. Its programs foster growth by guiding individuals committed to building fulfilling careers, while addressing the increasing demand for skilled and dedicated professionals in today’s workforce.