IAM at Clinton Expands Workforce Training with Free Welding Academy Series

The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing at Clinton Community College is inviting individuals interested in learning welding skills to apply for the first of four free Welding Academy cohorts beginning Oct. 19.

The three-week, 120-hour program will prepare participants to perform basic welding and earn industry-recognized credentials. Students will receive certifications from the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) in welding safety, foundations of welding, Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW-MIG).

Participants will receive a $20-per-hour stipend during the academy. Childcare and transportation assistance also will be available for eligible students.

This month's Welding Academy is the first of four cohorts that the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing will offer in the coming months through funding provided by the Office of Strategic Workforce Development at Empire State Development.

The grant covers the cost of personal protective equipment, instructional materials, certification testing and hands-on welding training for participants.

"This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in developing skills that can lead to employment in a high-demand field," said D. Billy Jones, vice president of strategic initiatives and workforce development. "We are grateful for Empire State Development's support, which allows us to expand workforce training opportunities such as this Welding Academy and ultimately continuing working to serve the North Country."

Enrollment is limited to 12 participants per cohort. Applicants will be interviewed for admission. Those not selected for the first cohort may be considered for future sessions.

Individuals interested in participating may register online at clinton.asapconnected.com.