Lone Star College System has partnered with Texas Workforce Commission and Workforce Solutions to provide free training opportunities in Welding and Ironworking for people facing financial hardships.

“There is a huge demand for workers who are trained in these fields,” said Michael Burns, Lone Star Corporate College director. “We’re pleased that Lone Star College is able to give some in our community the opportunity to find new employment in a well-paid career through this program.”

Eligibility for this free training program is determined by Workforce Solutions based on financial hardship. If you are eligible for TANF, SNAP, Unemployment, or if you make less than $37,000 yearly AND have a child under 18, you may be considered for the program.

Classes begin Sept. 2 at LSC-North Harris, and students can complete the program in less than two months. Tuition, books and supplies are paid for students in this program. 

Welding and ironworking are critical fields in growing industries in the Gulf Coast, and workers are in constant demand.

Within the past year, 1,195 openings have been posted for welders in the Houston Metropolitan Statistical Area, with an average entry level wage for welders of $13.85, and the average wage at $19.46. 

Within the past year, 66 openings have been posted for ironworkers in the Houston MSA, and these skills fit several other high-demand jobs. In the Houston area, the average entry level wage for ironworkers is $12.61, and the average wage is $18.98.

Space is limited for these free training opportunities. Visit LoneStar.edu/WorkForceTraining to learn more and complete an information form.

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call 512-463-8942 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.

Lone Star College System has been opening doors to a better community for more than 40 years. Founded in 1973, LSCS remains steadfast in its commitment to student success and credential completion.  Today, with 78,000 students in credit classes, and a total enrollment of more than 90,000, Lone Star College System is the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area and one of the fastest-growing community college systems in the nation.  Dr. Steve Head is the chancellor of LSCS, which consists of six colleges including LSC-CyFair, LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Montgomery, LSC-North Harris, LSC-Tomball and LSC-University Park, seven centers, LSC-University Center at Montgomery, LSC-University Center at University Park, Lone Star Corporate College, and LSC-Online.

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