The Ohio Strategic Training Center is offering a new welder-training program set to begin on May 5.

The one-year certificate program is a flexible program that will allow students to take courses on both a part-time and full-time basis. The program will provide entry-level welders with the skills necessary to acquire a job as well as allow welders already in the field to brush up on their craft. The OSTC has partnered with Ohio University Southern and Lorain County Community College to bring this program to Lawrence County.

“The demand for welders is expected to grow about 6 percent a year through 2022,” said Peggy Michener, of the LCCC via a press release. “While some employers are willing to hire inexperienced welders, the majority prefers to hire those who have been through welding training or credentialing programs.”

The LCCC is well known as the home of the National Center for Welding Education and Training. The schools partnership with OSTC and OUS will help people seeking employment find work by teaching them the necessary skills for the available jobs in the area.

“OUS is excited to partner with the OSTC and the LCCC to address the workforce needs for Lawrence County and our region,” Dan Evans, interim dean at OUS, said in the release. “While our emphasis is on welding training at the moment, I believe there will be many opportunities to expand our partnership and work together for the benefit of our community.”

Scott Howard, the executive director of OSTC, agreed with Evans saying the program will directly provide jobs for those who complete the course load.

“This is the kind of training that can lead to immediate employment,” Howard said. “At the conclusion of the one-year certificate program students will have the option of immediately entering the workforce, continuing their education and achieving an associate’s degree, or both.”

OSTC will be holding two information sessions for those interested in the program. The sessions are scheduled from 2 and 6 p.m. today. The OSTC is located at 216 Collins Avenue in South Point. For more information on the OSTC or the new welding program call 740-377-9876 or visit www.ohioweld.com.