URGENT UPDATE: Palo Alto College has just announced a significant investment of $1 million to expand its welding program, responding to soaring demand for skilled welders across various industries. As interest surges, the college is set to enhance its facilities, adding 20 new welding booths to accommodate the growing number of students eager to enter this vital field.
The welding program has consistently reached capacity, prompting officials to invest in an expansion that will see the new facilities open for students at the beginning of the 2025 fall semester. According to Yves Fanfelle, the lead welding instructor, the need for welders is critical, especially in sectors such as oil and automotive. “There are many opportunities emerging, particularly in battery refurbishment for electric vehicles,” Fanfelle stated.
The expansion is also strategically timed with the anticipated launch of JCB’s largest facility in San Antonio, which is set to open in October 2026 and aims to hire around 200 manual welders. This development underscores the urgent need for skilled labor in the region.
Luis Fernandez, dean of workforce and professional programs at Palo Alto College, explained that the expansion will allow the college to serve more students, increasing the total number of welding booths from 20 to 45. “This investment will provide our students with ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience and learn the latest industry techniques,” Fernandez noted.
Current students like Sandra Gomez are already feeling the positive impact of this expansion. Gomez, who is set to graduate in December, expressed her enthusiasm for the advancements in technology within the welding trade. “It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come with robotics and laser welding,” she said. “This program is helping me keep a family legacy alive while equipping me for the future.”
Palo Alto College’s welding program is also evolving academically, now offering a pathway to a bachelor’s degree in Applied Technology and Operations Management, enabling students to pursue supervisory roles within the industry. Additionally, the college recently restructured its degree offerings to include certifications in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, allowing students to progress from a Level I certificate to an Associate of Science degree.
Looking ahead, the college is poised for further growth. Following the approval of a $987 million bond by Bexar County voters in May, $95 million will be allocated for building a new facility at Brook City. This new building is expected to house an additional 40 to 50 welding booths and is projected to open within three years.
As the demand for skilled welders continues to grow, Palo Alto College is committed to adapting its program to meet the evolving needs of the industry. “We are determined to stay ahead of the curve and ensure our students are well-prepared for the workforce,” Fanfelle emphasized.
This investment in the welding program not only reflects the college’s dedication to education but also highlights the critical role vocational training plays in supporting local economies. The expansion is set to create a ripple effect, fostering job growth and providing students with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Palo Alto College continues to innovate in the field of vocational education.
