Ten students are celebrating a major career milestone after successfully completing a welding training program offered through the WorkAdvance program through Great Lakes Community Action Partnership (GLCAP) in partnership with the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and Terra State Community College.

The no-cost program provided participants with more than just technical training. Students also received access to comprehensive support services including career coaching, work supports, and other individualized assistance through GLCAP.

The five-week course began on Feb. 24 and was held at Terra State Community College. Designed to accommodate working adults, classes took place in the evenings from 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday.

Throughout the program, students developed hands-on welding skills and completed industry-recognized credentials. Upon successful testing, participants earned the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) 1G certification (flat position), administered by an American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector. In addition, all students completed OSHA 10-hour online safety training, equipping them with essential workplace safety knowledge.

All ten participants completed the program, achieving a 100 percent graduation rate.

Graduates and their families gathered on April 8 at GLCAP Headquarters to celebrate the accomplishment. The ceremony recognized not only the students’ dedication and hard work, but also the collaborative effort behind the program to create accessible pathways to in-demand careers.

Program organizers say the success of this cohort highlights the importance of partnerships that remove financial barriers while providing wraparound support to help individuals succeed in training and transition into the workforce.

“This program demonstrates what’s possible when training meets opportunity—ten graduates are now prepared to move forward into meaningful, in-demand careers,” GLCAP Workforce Specialist Mallory Pena said.

With their new certifications and skills, the graduates are now prepared to pursue careers in the welding field, an industry that continues to offer strong demand and competitive wages.