Pictured (from left) is: Braden Jones (Instructor), Alberto Valdez, Jaylon Smith, Angel Guerrero, Omar Juarez, Chaise Milner, Bralyn Johnson, and Shaun Avance.
91ֿ and celebrated the graduation of the second class of the Process Welding Academy on Thursday, October 17th at Diamond C headquarters. Seven students completed the eight-week, 12-credit hour program that teaches the processes and techniques needed to start a career as a production welder.
- Graduates include:
- Shaun Avance, Paris
- Omar Juarez, Pittsburg
- Chaise Milner, Mount Pleasant
- Jaylon Smith, New Boston
- Bralyn Johnson, Pittsburg
- Angel Guerrero, Daingerfield
- Alberto Valdez, Del Rio
The program was taught by instructor Braden Jones. Bralyn Johnson finished at the top of the class.
The Process Welding Academy is made possible thanks to a from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. It is specifically aimed toward reskilling and upskilling workers into high-demand fields. The curriculum for the program was designed to teach Diamond C processes so welders are employable upon graduation. Thanks to the grant, students are currently able to complete the program at no cost to them.
“This is the second class of students to graduate from this unique program and we are very pleased with the outcomes,” Dr. Miles Young, NTCC Dean of Workforce Education, said. “This model is really a win-win as it benefits the college, Diamond C, and – most importantly – the students and their families.”
In addition to achieving a micro-credential in Process Welding, students also earned 12 credit hours that they can build upon if they choose to continue their college education. While most of the instruction took place at NTCC, students also spent time at Diamond C learning from their trainers and watching their welders in action. Some of the students had never welded before starting the program.
"Diamond C is proud to continue our partnership with 91ֿ as we welcome the second group of students from the Process Welding Academy. These hardworking students are the future of our industry, and investing in their development is a top priority for us," said Barbara Grubbs, Vice President of HR at Diamond C.
The next cohort of the Process Welding Academy begins October 21st. While that class is at capacity, another cohort is scheduled to begin in January. Classes meet for eight weeks from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
“This is a phenomenal opportunity for dedicated students who are willing to put in the work. You can literally walk onto campus knowing nothing about welding and graduate with the skills and confidence to go to work as a production welder making a competitive wage,” Jimmy Smith, NTCC Director of Continuing Education and Corporate Training, said.
Prospective students should visit ntcc.edu/weldnow for more information and complete the brief . Students can also contact Cali Davis, College Navigator, at 903-434-8147 or cmdavis@ntcc.edu for assistance.
