Co-Lin Workforce sees twenty-seven welders earn certifications

It’s no secret that industries across the state need trained welders, and in response to that demand Co-Lin Workforce Education offers training at all three Co-Lin locations. The term recently concluded with 27 trained welders completing the required courses. Shelika Hooker, Workforce Trainer/Coordinator, stayed busy this year keeping sessions going in Wesson, Natchez and Simpson County, but says the busy times are worth it when she sees participants reaching goals and creating better career opportunities for themselves.

One example is Wesson Campus student Scottie Peavey, who decided he wanted to improve his career potential by enrolling in career training classes. Although Peavey has a Bachelor’s degree, he found that his job choices were narrow and knew that he needed to diversify his skills. His research started on-line and then he pursued more information at the Co-Lin Wesson Campus. The night welding program caught his attention because of his work history in metal building construction and the high demand for welders. This accomplishment has meant everything to him and his family, as he now has a skill and is able to work with his hands. For Peavey, nothing is wrong with an honest day’s work. Currently, Miller Mechanical hired Peavey as a boilermaker welder, ironworker and welder after he discovered the open position online.

Since completing his welding training, Peavey feels he did the right thing for his career and now has more opportunities after completing the 10-month program than he did with his 4-year degree. Peavey’s future ambitions include becoming a boilermaker welding supervisor and traveling around the country supervising at various sites.