The Economic Development Division of West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) recently unveiled its new, cutting-edge mobile welding lab that will allow WGTC to better serve industry needs and meet workforce demands.

The 53-foot lab is self-contained with its own ventilation and air conditioning systems and is outfitted with six multi-process Lincoln welders, along with six complete welding tool sets and all equipment needed to train in SMAW (stick), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), and FCAW. AWS weld testing will also be available.

The design of the mobile welding lab will allow WGTC the flexibility to travel and provide short-term, non-credit training to industry partners throughout its entire seven-county service area. Whether it’s upskilling existing employees or preparing the entry-level workforce, WGTC Economic Development can tailor training to meet local workforce needs making workforce development more convenient than ever before.

Angela Berch, WGTC Vice President of Economic Development & Community Relations, expressed her gratitude to the College for making the purchase of the mobile welding lab happen.

“The WGTC Economic Development Division is so thankful that the College was able to utilize some of its institutional CARES funds to purchase the mobile welding lab,” Berch said. “The need for on-site training for our industry partners was brought to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic when outside training opportunities were halted. With the mobile welding lab, welding training can literally be delivered to our partners’ facilities, saving travel time for their employees thus reducing their time away from work.”

In addition to industry training, WGTC President Julie Post stated that the mobile welding lab will be used to educate K-12 students about welding as a career.

“We are excited about taking our training out into the community and also showcasing our exciting programs with future students to spark the flame of interest,” Post said.

For more information on the mobile welding lab, contact Linda Sullivan at 678.664.0516 or[email protected].