The Santa Rosa School District is making strides in providing high school seniors with valuable skills and certifications through its Welding Technology Program. Starting next fall, Navarre High School students enrolled in the welding program will have the opportunity to receive on-site training, eliminating the need to travel to Locklin Technical College in Milton for classes.
Charlin Knight, the Santa Rosa School District Workforce Education director, expressed excitement about the expansion of the welding program at Navarre High. With the district being named a Space Florida Academy, students will have access to high-demand credentials and skills necessary to work in the aerospace industry. This partnership aims to expose students to careers on Florida’s Space Coast and provide them with multiple stackable welding certifications.
The program, which is currently offered at Locklin Tech, allows high school students to earn industry certifications at no cost. This two-year program not only prepares students for well-paying jobs but also opens doors to opportunities in the aerospace industry. Students like Masen Modlin, a Navarre High senior, have already earned welding certifications and are eager to pursue a career in the field.
Masen shared his enthusiasm for welding, citing his desire to make a career out of it and follow in his father’s footsteps. With the support of knowledgeable instructors at Locklin Tech, Masen is working towards obtaining additional certifications and is excited about the prospect of working in the aerospace industry.
Other students, like Arianna Negrotto and Delaney Hill, have also found a passion for welding through hands-on learning. They appreciate the creative aspect of the field, as well as the potential for high earnings and job stability. The program at Navarre High will not only provide students with valuable skills but also connect them with local manufacturers and job opportunities.
Keith Hines, the Director of Locklin Technical College, highlighted the job market demand for skilled welders and the attractive pay rates in the field. Students who complete the program can expect to earn competitive wages and have the flexibility to explore various career paths within the welding industry.
The expansion of the Welding Technology Program into Navarre High represents a significant opportunity for students to gain valuable skills and pursue careers in high-demand industries. By partnering with Space Florida, the Santa Rosa School District is preparing students for success in the aerospace industry and breaking down misconceptions about career opportunities in Northwest Florida.
Overall, the Welding Technology Program at Navarre High is providing students with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market. With a focus on hands-on learning, industry certifications, and real-world experience, students are well-equipped to embark on rewarding careers in welding and related fields.