Welding Program Expands to CAM in Laurens County

Piedmont Technical College’s welding program is expanding to the Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CAM) in Laurens County for the fall.

The addition of the welding lab comes as part of Phase II construction for the Center, which also includes a mechatronics lab, additional CNC equipment and another classroom shared between CNC and mechatronics. With Phase II complete, Piedmont Technical College will be able to offer the welding program entirely in Laurens County, complete with hands-on lab time for students—eliminating the need to drive to Greenwood for the hands-on portion of this curriculum. 

“These classes are the same courses being taught in Greenwood,” said Jim Fleming, welding program coordinator and instructor. “We want to provide options for those who are interested in enrolling in the welding program, but are unable to make the drive.”

The program will work well for anyone interested in pursuing a career in welding, especially for the students enrolled in the journeyman welding certificate program at Clinton High School. The program allows students to complete the entire certificate in one school year.

“The certificate gives the students so many more opportunities once they graduate,” said Fleming. “They now have the option to come to Piedmont Tech in Laurens County and complete the welding diploma.”

“Providing students with the right opportunities to be successful in the workforce is at the heart of our mission at Piedmont Technical College,” said David Kibler, interim dean of engineering and industrial technologies. “The addition of the complete welding program at the Center for Advanced Manufacturing will make it even easier for students to earn their degree.”

For more information on the welding program, contact Fleming at (864) 941-8470 or at fleming.j@ptc.edu.