NWF welding students gain industry experience with visiting companies

The NWF welding program continues to thrive while providing students with valuable experience and exposure.

Each year, the Northwest Florida State College welding program seeks out various companies to visit and test graduating students on their abilities. This year, National Boiler Service, Chicago Bridge & Iron, JV Industrial and Yates Construction are using the NWF welding facility to test students from a few programs, including 12 graduating students from NWF. More often than not, students earn employment from these visiting companies.

“The students that pass these weld tests are placed on a company’s hiring list, so that when an opening becomes available, the students are called to work,” says Scottie Smith, NWF welding instructor. “Most students go to work for one of these companies within 90 days of testing. Some students leave school with a job. It depends on the needs of the companies.”

After completing testing, all 14 advanced daytime welding students passed a weld certification test for at least one industrial company. Six of the 14 students passed weld certification tests for multiple companies. Two students passed weld certification test at the testing facility for the Pipefitter & Pipe Welders Union.

Since its introduction in 2013, the NWF welding program has seen a sharp increase in popularity resulting in a wait list for admittance. The successes of this program and its students continue to make an impact on the industry and the opportunities it presents.

Photo: Ryan McLeod (Baker) welds a pipe to complete his final exam.