Welding programs continue to expand in the Golden Isles

Manufacturing firms require a variety of skilled positions at varying levels. The Golden Isles education partners work never stops providing responsive curriculums and programs that meet today’s demand and prepare for future opportunities. Welding is an excellent example of one of the programs that our region continues to promote and grow. 

In 2019 CPTC graduated 250 students from their Welding Technology program, an increase of 53.4% from the 2018 academic year. Partnering with the local K-12 school systems and promoting Dual Enrollment is one reason for the increase in graduates.

“We can’t supply welders fast enough,’ said Eva Byrd, project manager at Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC). “There is an incredibly high demand for welders, and businesses are hiring our students as soon as they are ready.”

Georgia’s Dual Enrollment program allows qualified high school students to maximize their education and career training by taking courses that earn college and high school credit at the same time. Under Dual Enrollment, students may take academic core courses that can transfer to the Technical College System of Georiga colleges or University System of Georgia colleges and universities. Students may also take occupational and career courses that can help jumpstart a career. 

Although last year the region saw increases in these programs, the partners recognize the need to build on the momentum in advancing welding and other skilled trades. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers will grow three percent through 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Since the Golden Isles, and Georiga as a state, continue to attract and expand manufacturing companies, we believe investing in our skilled trades is essential to our communities’ success. Our region’s partners are already planning new and exciting ways to attract students and families to these programs.

This winter, the first-ever “This Girl Can” event is being spearheaded by the Golden Isles College and Career Academy and supported by CPTC, Glynn County Schools, and the Golden Isles Development Authority.

The program will invite female students and an adult sponsor to participate in welding activity over three evenings. Each night welcomes guest speakers within the welding profession or the education system to share their experience in the industry and answer any questions that the participants may have. More information on this program will be available in the coming weeks.

The continued investment and promotion of welding programs and careers is an excellent example of the collaboration in the Golden Isles when it comes to workforce development. To learn more about we are working to support businesses’ needs today and in the future, contact our Business Retention & Expansion Coordinator today, sherripruitt@bwkeda.com ⚙