Stanly Community College (SCC) has collaborated with Lincoln Electric Company and the Boy Scouts of America to host the first welding merit badge event in the area. In 2012, the Boy Scouts of America launched their welding merit badge in which scouts can earn their badge by learning welding fundamentals and career opportunities.

Charlie Cross, Senior Customer Training Instructor, Lincoln Electric Company, noted, “Lincoln Electric is a proud sponsor of the Boy Scouts of America, one of the nation’s largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The Boy Scouts of America believes that introducing youth to skilled trades likewelding is a key to building a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.”

SCC Welding Technology Program Head, William Beaver, prepared a one-day GMAW welding course specifically for the scouts. GMAW welding is also known as gas metal arc welding, a process used to weld aluminum, steel,and other non-ferrous materials. “We are very excited to be able to offer a welding course to the Boy Scouts of America for their welding merit badges. I believe this is the first of its kind in the region and we are proud to be part of a program that supports our youth. We would like to thank Lincoln Electric for their support to help us carry out this welding merit badge program. Having the support from Lincoln Electric helps Scouts and parents see the relevance of welding and the value of what we offer at SCC.”

SCC offers a welding diploma, certificate, and continuing education opportunities. Additionally, SCC offers a tuition-waived program for high school juniors and seniors. Please visit the College’s website at www.stanly.edu to learn more.