Local business praises Loyalist's new welding program

By Keenan Weaver

The torch has been lit for changes to the welding program at Loyalist College that could mean big things for its graduates.

The current one-year welding techniques program will become a two-year welding and fabrication technician experience with more focus on newer technologies.

John Crouter, general manager of Bellevue Fabrication Ltd., said it’s a much-needed change to meet the needs of the changing industry.

“The emphasis always seemed to be on the welding aspect of it, and that’s not nearly as important as the fitting part of the job or the machine training,” he said.

The new program will offer students a longer learning experience that involves more aspects of welding and more computer training.

“The more schooling they get and the more knowledge they gain outside of just the welding, the better they’re going to be suited for the industry,” said Crouter.

The new program is expected to be up and running for the next school year.