The new state-of-the-art welding lab compliments the school’s new welding certificate curriculum, which is modeled after American Welding Society (AWS) programs.
By Alicia Baker
Staff Writer, Marketing and Public Relations
Washington State Community College
MARIETTA, Ohio – Dr. Bradley Ebersole, president of Washington State Community College (WSCC), recently welcomed area dignitaries to cut the ribbon on the new state-of-the-art welding lab at WSCC.
The lab was completed in response to growing manufacturing and energy production industry needs.
The new state-of-the-art welding lab compliments the school’s new welding certificate curriculum, which is modeled after American Welding Society (AWS) programs.
“The demand for qualified welders in Eastern and Southeastern Ohio is higher than ever due to the increased domestic energy production in both Marcellus and Utica shale formations. Recognizing this opportunity, Washington State Community College launched a one-year welding certificate program,” said Congressman Bill Johnson.
“I was thoroughly impressed by the new state-of-the-art lab equipment I viewed during a recent visit to the school, and after meeting with instructors and students, there is no doubt in my mind that WSCC’s new program will greatly benefit our community,” Johnson said.
Josh Horner, the newly hired welding instructor, is ASME certified and a graduate of the West Virginia University Parkersburg welding program. Horner has numerous years of experience working in fabrication shops in the area.
“I am excited about the new welding program here at Washington State Community College because of our new state-of-the-art lab and equipment, and the fact that we are offering extra lab hours, hands-on experience, and evening as well as daytime classes,” Horner said.
Chad Burdette, a student in the Welding Program at WSCC, said he believes Washington State Community College is a great school for non-traditional students, adding that his wife graduated from the LPN, RN programs.
Burdette said he had previous welding experience and knew that to gain employment and to get his foot in the door with the booming oil and gas industries, he needed to go back to school.
“I love the (welding) program at WSCC. Josh Horner is a great instructor and a great guy. I had some prior welding experience, and in the short time I have been in the program, my skills have improved greatly.”
Kyle Legleitner, a retired US Marine who, prior to joining the welding program at WSCC, operated a tow-truck with some over-the-road experience. Legleitner reported that he had welding experience, but chose the school to improve his skills. “Josh (Horner) is a great teacher and the program has really helped me define my welding skills.”
According to the school, local industries like Pioneer Pipe, Hi-Vac (Alliance), Solvay, Therma-Fisher, and Skuttle Manufacturing will be looking for those who are able to fill welding positions.
Other local industries that supply equipment and services to oil companies also are seeking welders.
WSCC’s welding curriculum is based on the input of the above-mentioned companies. The one-year welding certificate includes stick (shielded metal arc welding), MIG (gas metal arc welding; metal, inert gas), TIG (gas tungsten arc welding; tungsten, inert gas), plate and pipe welding, as well as set-up techniques.
Safety and hands-on experience are priorities throughout the new WSCC welding program.
About WSCC
For more than 40 years, Washington State Community College has provided residents of the Mid-Ohio Valley the opportunity to realize dreams, to enhance skills, and to broaden understanding.
Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult student looking to move your life in a new direction, Washington State has the classes to suit your needs.
For more information about Washington State Community College, visit www.wscc.edu or call 740.374.8716.
