PTC Journeyman Welding Certificate Now Offered in Laurens County

In an ongoing effort to push more full programs out to the counties surrounding Greenwood, Piedmont Technical College now offers the full Journeyman Welding Certificate in Laurens County.

Registration is now open for the upcoming fall term, which begins on August 24.

This offering has been made possible through an ongoing partnership with Laurens District 55.

“This was a good opportunity for Piedmont Tech to grow the welding program and benefit all those involved,” said Keith Lasure, dean of engineering and industrial technology at PTC.

The program offers Gas & Arc Welding, Arc Welding II and Print Reading each evening Monday through Thursday at Laurens 55 High School. The initial launch of the program brought in 11 students who saw it as an alternative to driving to the Greenwood campus.

The certificate can be completed in two semesters. Once they receive the certificate, students have the option to pursue a welding diploma or an associate degree in occupational technology on the Greenwood campus.

“I think I would have gone into the welding program no matter where it was located, but I’m glad they put it closer to home and made it easier on all of us,” said Travis Lawson of Clinton.

Mike Melton of Laurens retired from his job in January, 2010 and saw the new program as an opportunity to pursue his interest.

“I’ve always had a passion for welding, but I’ve never had any formal training,” said Melton. “I decided this was my chance. If the program had not been held here at the high school in Laurens, I probably would not have been part of the program.”

“The classes are the same beginning courses taught in Greenwood,” said Jim Fleming, PTC welding program coordinator/instructor. “We wanted to provide options for those who are interested in enrolling in the welding program, but are unable to make the drive. I think we were successful in that endeavor.”

Fleming said the plan is to continue to expand the program and offer more courses in Laurens.

For more information, contact the Piedmont Technical College Laurens County Higher Education Center at (864) 938-1505.