Welding is Key to Our Economy, New Program Opens at North Florida College
MADISON, FL (October 7, 2024) – The demand for the welding profession is growing and the need for trained, skilled employees is critical.
Recognizing that professional welders are needed to fulfill current and future industry demand, North Florida College will start its Welding Technology Program Spring Semester 2025 exclusively at its Madison campus.
Students will have the opportunity to learn with state-of-the-art equipment that allows for real-world experiences. NFC’s welding lab will train for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), Carbon Arc Gouging (GAC) principles, visual examination skills, Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and a basic understanding of pipe welding.
This hands-on education will prepare students for employment or advanced training in the welding industry. Through the program, employability skills will be stressed with focus on attendance, punctuality, teamwork, and safety.
“Certified welders are in high-demand and key to our economic infrastructure,” states David Dunkle, NFC Associate Dean of Economic Development and Workforce Education. “They help construct buildings, work in the energy industry, even our transportation industry. Think about the welders it took to create some of the great bridges that span our highways. By either welding products or equipment, welders become part of our daily lives.”
When students complete the program and receive their certification, they will be eligible for entrance into welding career pathways such Structural Iron and Steel Worker, Boilermaker, Welding Inspector, and more.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020-2030 projections, employment of welders in Florida is expected to grow by 11% offering a median annual wage of $47,680. The anticipated growth in this occupation can be linked to current job openings, industry growth, and an aging workforce nearing retirement.
“From kitchen coffeemakers to aerospace equipment, manufacturing relies on welding,” states Johnny Young, NFC Welding Instructor. “After working in the welding industry for 16 years, my goal was to help train the next generation of welders that will produce jobs and household income for those in our six-county service district.”
For more information on the NFC Career and Workforce Education, please contact Johnny Young, Welding Instructor, at 850-973-9478 or email [email protected].
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An NFC student carefully welds a carbon steel T-joint, putting into practice what he has learned in the Welding Technology Program.