Article Series:
Johnson College’s Welding Training Center
Part 1

As the Center for Sustainability at Johnson College evolves, one of the newest endeavors under this initiative is the opening of the Welding Training Center.

Johnson College has continually taken a lead role in regional economic development and community partnerships by developing programs that complement business trends and train students for high-demand occupations. The Center for Sustainability focuses on programming that provides industry-driven curriculum pertaining to a regional understanding and application of green and sustainable concepts.

Currently, a significant business trend focuses on the natural gas industry. While the development of natural gas from the Pennsylvania Marcellus Shale is in its earliest phase, the demand for a skilled workforce is already rapidly expanding. Johnson College’s Welding Training Center now provides training to serve the natural gas industry.

In 2002, after thirty-three years, Johnson College suspended its respected Welding Program due to declining enrollment. Recently, the need to bring welding training back to the College became apparent to Marie Allison, Director of Continuing Education.

“At this time, there is an increased demand for welders due to the natural gas industry. Johnson College, given its reputation and history with welding education, has the chance to make a difference in the lives of job seekers,” explains Ms. Allison. “Our Welding Training Center strives to equip individuals with the skills necessary to obtain entry-level positions as welders for the gas industry.”

Classes are underway at Johnson College’s Welding Training Center. Welding is the process of joining separate pieces of metal in a metallic bond and can be performed under a number of conditions by using a variety of methods. The courses presently offered include Basic Cutting & Welding for Pressure Pipelines and Pipe Welding. Applications are now being accepted. Day and evening classes are available.

The Welding Training Center also provides booth rentals as well as customized job training. Welding instructor Jeff Roughgarden states, “Our training doesn’t only benefit those who wish to find careers in the natural gas industry. Jobs for individuals with entry-level welding skills can be found across multiple industry sectors.”

Johnson College will be holding an Open House for its Welding Training Center on Wednesday, August 4, 2010. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m. and formal remarks commence at 4:00 p.m. The Welding Training Center is located at 2001 Rosanna Avenue, Unit A, in Scranton. Prospective students, employers, and the general public are welcome to attend. The Open House will feature information about classes, a tour of the facilities, and the chance to speak with representatives from the College. Individuals can RSVP for the Open House by calling Cathy Beckage, Continuing Education Assistant, at 570-702-8979 or cbeckage@johnson.edu.

Johnson College’s Welding Training Center will be further highlighted in the coming weeks. For more information at this time, please visit www.johnson.edu or contact Ms. Allison at 570-702-8924 or mallison@johnson.edu.

Johnson College welding instructor Jeff Roughgarden demonstrates pipe welding.