BARTOW, FL — Opportunities continue to grow at Polk State College as the institution prepares to launch a new welding program in spring 2027, providing students with hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications for in-demand careers. According to Polk State College, the program is supported by a $2.8 million Florida Job Growth Grant and will be offered at the college’s Advanced Technology Center in Bartow.
Due to overwhelming interest, Polk State College has established a pre-registration list for prospective students. Those who join the list will receive 72 hours of advance notice before official registration opens, giving them an opportunity to secure a spot in the program.
The program will provide hands-on instruction in welding and cutting-edge technology, preparing students for certifications in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA-10).
These qualifications can lead to employment opportunities in several industries, including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, logistics, utilities, and energy.
The welding program builds on Polk State College’s existing Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Production Specialist Program, which is also expanding with support from the Florida Job Growth Grant.
Over the three-year grant period, the college aims to provide CNC or welding education to 300 students, helping meet the growing demand for skilled workers throughout Polk County.
Interested individuals can join the welding program’s pre-registration list by emailing trainingsolutions@polk.edu.
Additional information is available at “polk.edu” (https://www.polk.edu).
SOURCE: POLK STATE COLLEGE
