On April 9, Ivy Tech Valparaiso celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expansion of its welding program. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the program's growth and ability to provide students with enhanced learning opportunities. President Sue Ellspermann, PhD, and Valparaiso Chancellor Aco Sikoski shared their thoughts on the program's importance, joining students, faculty, and community leaders to recognize the opportunities now available to future welders across the region.
The welding program continues to prepare students for success in the workforce by offering certifications such as OSHA qualifications and welding credentials. These certifications are essential for job readiness and give students a competitive edge in the job market upon graduation.
“We always say that we are offering programming and training initiatives to align with workforce needs,” said Sikoski. “But when it came to our attention from the Porter County Career Center that there were so many students on the waiting list, we knew we had to do something. So, I assembled a team to explore how we could secure funding. Between the campus, the system office, and private donations, we were able to make it happen.”
Recent upgrades to the welding lab demonstrate the commitment to providing students with a high-quality learning environment. The improvements ensure that students have access to the latest tools and equipment to gain practical experience and prepare for careers in the welding industry.
“The Valparaiso campus has done amazing work with our local Career Center and high school students,” said Ellspermann. “They’ve gone above and beyond to expand our welding capabilities, including making the program ADA accessible so individuals with disabilities can learn to weld and gain critical skills. These skills open the door to great careers, and they can continue their education at Ivy Tech for years to come, building strong, long-term futures.”
Dual enrollment programs have played a pivotal role in increasing access to technical education. These opportunities allow high school students to earn college credits and certifications, helping them fast-track their education and gain specialized skills before entering the workforce.
“How cool is it that these students, especially the high schoolers, are coming to Ivy Tech for free, earning college credits, gaining certifications, and getting primed to enter the workforce,” said Sikoski. “And what’s even more exciting is that we can accommodate 48 students simultaneously. Each one has individual equipment to train on—48 individual students.”
Students like Xander and Gavin shared their personal experiences, highlighting the significant impact of dual enrollment and certification programs. Both students emphasized how these programs have provided them with valuable skills and opened doors to future career opportunities in welding.
“These students are on the waiting list simply because they love this career, and we need to make that happen—we need to offer those opportunities,” said Sikoski.
“I cannot emphasize enough how happy and excited I am, not just because we’re increasing efficiency, but also safety. Just look at the space—it’s clean, the air quality is great, and it feels like a modern manufacturing plant. But it’s more than that. Students will enjoy the full college experience in a professional, welcoming environment.”
The program’s improvements are expected to benefit students and local industries, helping to address the region’s growing need for skilled workers.
“Getting the opportunity to take college credits while in high school and earn certifications that lead directly to jobs—that’s a game changer,” said Ellspermann. “Whether stick, TIG, or MIG welding, these students can step into careers making $25 to $45 an hour. From there, they can continue their education or professional development toward a long-term career. It’s a great starting point for any student.”
The expansion of technical education, particularly in construction and welding, reflects the growing demand for skilled workers in these vital industries. Investments in programs like these benefit both students and the broader community, providing crucial opportunities for future careers and workforce development.
“I appreciate the community. I appreciate our industry partners, the schools, the high schools, the Career Center—everyone working with us to make this happen,” said Sikoski. “Because, as we all say, it takes a village to raise a child, which is exactly what’s happening. I am proud to serve all these individuals in Valparaiso, in Porter County.”
For more information, please visit the Ivy Tech Valparaiso website.
