This Golden LEAF grant will allow Rockingham CC to renovate an existing welding lab and up-fit a second training room to accommodate existing and increased enrollment needs and meet demands of employers. Currently welding courses are filled to maximum capacity with students in two industrial degree programs (Electrical & Industrial Technology Programs) are often unable to complete welding course requirements to graduate on time. Local and regional employers have indicated high demand for welders over the next 2 to 3 years and are interested in interviewing graduates from RCC. Initial support letters from companies that have previously hired graduates from the RCC program identify approximately 200 new or replacement welding positions that they will be looking to fill. Funds will be used to renovate existing space, establish a new welding lab, and purchase 18 additional welding booths. The increased capacity will allow the college to double enrollment in welding classes to 140 students per year.
