Students get job offers after welding training

PARIS — Oxford Hills/Nezinscot Adult Education offered its first professional welding class this semester, part of the efforts to revamp the work force training component and to provide needed training for students seeking to work as welders.

The program continues to offer the enrichment welding class, but employers reported that they required additional training components beyond the ability to weld competently. The welding component of the class was taught by Dave Foster, and the employability skills and shop math component was taught by Tina Hicks.

Harold Skelton, vice president of human resources at Bancroft Contracting Corp., visited the students and provided feedback for the design of the professional welding course.

Students asked Skelton about the history of Bancroft and its major projects, past and present; the corporation’s general expectations, as well as that of a welder; the hours and working conditions students could expect as a working welder; and what tools he recommended that employees acquire.

This is the first of a series of work force training courses designed to fill entry-level positions. Students left the program with multiple job offers. Program suggestions are always welcome.

For more information, call 207-743-8842.