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Vocational program undergoes significant expansion

Not one, but two new facilities

HGTC's Advanced Manufacturing Center in Conway, S.C.
Photo courtesy of HGTC.

During the Great Recession, vocational training programs went into a freefall as one after another closed its doors. Interest in the programs was low, and jobs appeared to be scarce. Some wondered if this environment was more than a reflection of the current economic turmoil. Perhaps manufacturing jobs, many of which were sent offshore, were going the way of the dinosaur? Why provide or participate in training for jobs that might not be there in the near future?

Reports of expanding programs and waiting lists for classes indicate that technical colleges now are experiencing a resurgence as are manufacturing jobs. Reportedly, the demand for skilled workers is great—388,000 manufacturing job openings were available in June 2017.

As noted in an article on metrotimes.com, a 2015 report on employment and occupations in skilled trades released by the state of Michigan estimated that by 2022, skilled trades jobs will grow by almost 14 percent—about 6,600 jobs—a number well above the 8.7 percent growth rate expected for jobs in the state overall.

The article went on to say that the gap between the number of skilled trades workers and jobs will continue to grow as baby boomers, who hold the majority of skilled trades jobs in both Michigan and the country, retire. And the rate at which workers are graduating from the very limited vocational education programs available simply cannot support the ever-growing need.

Given this scenario, it’s encouraging when we learn of programs that are bursting at the seams and expanding to train more skilled workers. It also is encouraging that manufacturers and equipment providers are partnering with these educational institutions to provide these training opportunities.

Partnering is good, because the current administration’s proposed budget seeks to cut funding for job training programs that offer more classroom-based learning, programs such as those offered by South Carolina-based Horry Georgetown Technical College (HGTC).

HGTC recently opened a new advanced manufacturing center (AMC), and is slated to open another in 2019. Thefabricator.com participated in a Q&A with officials to learn more about the school and its expansion.

thefabricator.com: Tell us a little about the history of HGTC.

HGTC: Horry Georgetown Technical College is a comprehensive two-year community/technical college situated on the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach, S.C. It offers more than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs for students who are either seeking quick entry into the workforce or desiring to transfer to a senior institution to pursue a bachelor's degree.

Since its founding in 1966, HGTC has provided postsecondary vocational, technical, and occupational programs that lead directly to securing or continuing employment; associate degree programs that enable students to gain access to other postsecondary education; and personal interest classes, programs, and services that meet the job training, occupational advancement, and lifelong-learning needs of the residents and employers in its service area.

Students participating in HGTC'S welding program.
Photo courtesy of HGTC.

thefabricator.com: What prompted the establishment of the new facilities?

HGTC: The new manufacturing centers--one 25,000-sq.-ft. newly opened facility in Conway, S.C., just outside of Myrtle Beach, and one 30,000-sq.-ft. in Georgetown County, S.C., slated to open in summer of 2019—are in response to the demand of local and state employers who need trained machinists, CNC operators, welders, pipefitters, and electricians.

thefabricator.com: What, if anything, is different about the new AMCs compared to the existing facilities?

HGTC: The brand-new facilities will accommodate up to 51 students per class who will train on state-of-the-art equipment with both day and night program offerings.

thefabricator.com: Which manufacturers partner with you in your educational programs?

HGTC: Miller Electric Mfg., The Lincoln Electric Co., and Airgas Inc.

thefabricator.com: How did the partnerships come about? What do the partners contribute? Money, machinery, program input, internships?

HGTC: We approached Airgas, Miller, and Lincoln to ask if they would endorse our welding program, and after looking at our curriculum and student job placement, all three agreed.

They provide training and updated product information and allow HGTC to test products, machines, and consumables. All also give educational discounts on their products.

thefabricator.com: Are apprenticeships part of your program?

Student participating in HGTC'S welding program.
Photo courtesy of HGTC.

HGTC: We have several internships with many companies in our service area.

thefabricator.com: How many of your enrollees are pursuing career changes?

HGTC: We estimate that 40 percent of students enrolled are changing careers.

thefabricator.com: Which of your programs are the most heavily attended (longest waiting lists?), and which skills are manufacturers in your area seeking most?

HGTC: Our welding program has the highest enrollment. Skills needed are manual welding techniques in all processes. Soft skills are also a big topic for all companies.

thefabricator.com: Manufacturing jobs are evolving. The recent “Digital Workforce Succession in Manufacturing” report includes profiles of 20 roles that span a range of digital technologies. How do educational entities such as yours stay on top of the evolution, and what do you see as the future for those enrolled in your current programs as jobs change in manufacturing?

HGTC: With the three companies’ involvement, we are given the most current info on all cutting-edge topics, equipment, and manufacturing industry changes. All graduates and future students of the welding program have or will obtain skill sets that will provide a sound career in the field of welding for years to come.

thefabricator.com: What else would you like people to know about HGTC?

HGTC: The HGTC AMC/Industrial Technologies department goal is to set the standard for technical training in all programs offered at the facility.

“Setting the standard” is a lofty goal, and one that should be adopted by all training facilities. Hopefully, other vocational programs are benefiting from renewed interest in skilled trades and industry involvement and are poised for expansion.