COLUMBUS, Ind.–Ivy Tech Columbus and Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (TIEM) unveiled a new opportunity for manufacturing students recently. The new Toyota Industrial Equipment Welding Lab opened its doors on Tuesday thanks to a $350,000 donation from the company.
The expansion nearly tripled the current size of the college’s lab at the Columbus campus from 890 to 2,450 square feet. It features 20 metal welding booths with individual ventilation systems, precision and multi-process welding machines, plus an assortment of accessories, including a virtual reality welding simulator. TIEM also donated 19 engines to the college, enabling students to train and learn about engine engineering, components, and repair.
Graduates of the welding program can earn a certificate in Welding Technology in one year or a certificate in Structural Welding in eight months. American Welding Society certificates in Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding are also available.
Ivy Tech reports that a 10 percent increase in demand for welders is forecasted by the year 2024.
