by Josh Kurman | Roxanne Werly
EMMET COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) -- Businesses across Michigan continue to struggle to find enough workers. 300 Amp Inverter Welding Machine
The issue made more essential for industries that need to fill positions impacting construction and other infrastructure projects.
Northern Central Michigan College in Petoskey is trying to fill the void by putting some programs on a fast track.
One of the fast track programs will launch next month to get more welders on the job.
The nine-week program teaches basic skills in welding and metal fabrication, leading to American Welding Society certifications in gas metal arc welding and shielded metal arc welding.
Students in the program will also learn foundations of metal fabrication, including how to safely adjust, light up, and shut down an oxy-acetylene torch, as well as how to set up an oxy-acetylene portable unit.
The Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives is projecting 55 open positions annually through 2028.
Demand for certified welders is stable in Northwest Michigan, with Certified welders can expect to earn $16—$22 per hour in the region, according to the same report, though some local estimates are higher.
North Central is partnering with Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (LTBB) and Pellston Public Schools to deliver the program. LTBB is providing a starter welding kit to each student, and classes will meet at Pellston High School.
"They reached out to me last year with this idea of bringing a welding course to the community and to our adults, and there’s no way I could say no," explained Tanner Armantrout, Pellston High School Industrial Technology teacher.
Arc 200 Welding Machine Manual The first class is scheduled to start on October 25. There are twelve students enrolled in the first session.