A New Era for Welding Education Unveiled at Lincoln Campus

In what promises to be a groundbreaking shift for welding education, a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 21, to inaugurate the newly established Welding Technology Center at Southeast Community College’s Lincoln Campus. This state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize training and education in welding, doubling the enrolment capacity and positioning SCC as a leading hub for skilled education.

A Historic Milestone

At 11:30 a.m., the unveiling of this monumental facility will begin, featuring speeches from notable figures such as Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president; Governor Jim Pillen; and Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird. The event will be a cornerstone for SCC’s historic commitment to creating a skilled workforce.

Facilities That Define Cutting-Edge

Housing 196 individual welding booths, the center is the largest welding training facility on any college campus across the nation. “This facility represents a significant leap forward for SCC and our capacity to serve our students and industry partners,” stated Mark Hawkins, Welding program chair. According to Southeast Community College, the center will not only transform student lives but also impact industry partners as they explore new ways to meet their workforce needs.

Unparalleled Industry Collaboration

The center boasts innovative equipment, thanks to donations from international welding equipment manufacturers. New technology from Fronius will debut here before hitting the U.S. market. This boost from industry leaders ensures students are trained with the most current tools available, preparing them comprehensively for future careers.

Expanding Opportunities for Tomorrow’s Welders

Since its inception on the Lincoln campus in 1975, the SCC Welding Program has evolved rapidly. With more than 20,000 students having enrolled in its courses, the program is pivotal in addressing the skilled workforce demands of Nebraska and surrounding economies. The center’s design, incorporating input from local businesses and educators, reflects a commitment to state-of-the-art education and training, with allowances for future expansion.

Pioneering Training for Emerging Needs

Not only does the center handle student education, but it also facilitates specialized training for local industry partners, allowing current professionals to upgrade their skills. This dual approach ensures that SCC graduates are both well-prepared and responsive to industry needs, aligning with southeast Nebraska’s workforce development goals.

With this new facility, Southeast Community College is excitingly positioned at the forefront of welding education, driving innovation, and ensuring a robust pipeline of talented professionals in the region. The Lincoln Campus is ready to unlock a new era of learning and opportunity for all aspiring welders and those already in the field.