Nebraska high school opens $1.2 million welding, fabrication lab

Westside Community Schools, Omaha, Neb., in partnership with the Westside Foundation, has opened a welding, fabrication, and manufacturing lab at Westside High School. The project was funded by more than 40 donors, including several Nebraska corporations and the Nebraska Department of Labor.

“Industries nationwide are in dire need of qualified, talented trades workers,” said Tyler Owen of Owen Industries, and a 1990 graduate of Westside High. “This facility will provide top instruction and opportunity for our future workforce. We are investing in a new generation of engineers, welders and industry experts who we hope join our Nebraska and Iowa based companies and economy.”

The lab provides 2,500 sq. ft. of space devoted to trades instruction. In addition to equipment, students have access to mentorships, apprenticeships, and hands-on experience through strategic partnerships with local companies.