The programme, which starts in January 2019, will offer training for 50 students to become welders. Launched in 2014, the Skills Pipeline programme has provided more than $1.5m in scholarships through funds from Praxair’s Global Giving Programme.
Praxair’s latest gift of $185,000 will cover the cost of tuition and welding equipment for students. Graduates will earn welding certificates and college credits. Additionally, the Skills Pipeline programme includes career-readiness content from Praxair, funding for instructorships and professional development.
“We are pleased to bring our Skills Pipeline programme to Texas, helping even more people gain the skills they need to obtain productive and rewarding employment,” said Dr. Anne Roby, Senior Vice-President at Praxair.
“Welding gases are a significant part of Praxair’s business, making it a win for industry, customers and those in our local community,” Roby continued.
“Brazosport College is proud to join Praxair in this incredible opportunity,” said Dr. Lynda Villanueva, Provost and Vice-President of Academic & Student Affairs at Brazosport College.
“Through its generous contributions, 50 students will develop skills in a high-demand occupation where positions pay competitive wages,” Villanueva added.
Joining other successful Skills Pipeline programmes, this latest community engagement initiative demonstrates Praxair’s ongoing commitment to advancing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education and craft training to address the need for increasingly skilled workers.