Washington builder helps start welding school
BELLINGHAM, Wash. – An in-house training program run by Aluminum Chambered Boats, Inc. has blossomed into a private vocational school serving the marine community as Native American Fabricators Aluminum Welding School opened today, ACB reported in a recent release.
The school is located at the ACB manufacturing facility in Bellingham, Wash., and was founded in response to what the company describes as “an overwhelming need” in the manufacturing and marine industries for skilled, experienced, and certified aluminum welders.
“It is a ‘hands-on’ program with more than 80 percent of the time spent in actual welding practice,” said Art George, NAF director. “Graduates will be very prepared to enter manufacturing and marine industries with practical experience and certified training.”
Upon passing final examinations, students will become certified aluminum welders commensurate with U.S. Coast Guard standards, the company said.
The school is a partnership between ACB and George, who is a former Nooksack Tribal Chairman and was also the business manager of the Bellingham Plumbers and Pipe Fitters organization.
“The marine industry wants to diversify its workforce,” Scott Cravens, NAF administrator said. “Minorities and women are encouraged to enroll.”
The school accommodates a wide variety of students, from those with no experience to seasoned welders seeking an aluminum certification.
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