TUBE NEWS TN MAY 2017 | Page 15

numerous ideas to take home and things that I want to do in my own program.” The Welding Summit program was designed to help educators understand how manufacturing and contractor technology is changing and also familiarize them with the latest technologies used in the welding industry. Participants heard and interacted with a panel of industry experts including Blake Craft, director of welding application and compliance, Trinity Industries, Inc.; Monica Pfarr, corporate director, workforce development, American Welding Society; Patrick Henry, corporate director, education services, American Welding Society; and Steve Sumner, vice president, global equipment, Lincoln Electric. “Programs like this are crucial because manufacturers are asking for skilled and knowledgeable prospective employees. This helps us educate the instructors on what is necessary in today’s world,” added Henry. “Creating viable programs for economic development in regions across the country is a must to build a knowledgeable, skilled workforce.” “This event gives Lincoln Electric the opportunity to build a relationship between AACC, its member schools and our company,” says Jason Scales, business manager, educational products and services, Lincoln Electric. “We want to work together to create optimized talent pipelines for real jobs in every region and industry.” For more information on Lincoln Electric, visit www.lincolnelectric.com. 15 TN MAY 2017