(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Practicing safety is a key focus in many programs at Texas State Technical College.
One program that emphasizes safety at TSTC’s Harlingen campus is Welding Technology. Industry trained welding instructors teach students safety in three key areas: the ironworker machine, scaffolding structure and welding station.
An ironworker is an important tool in a manufacturing shop designed to perform jobs such as shearing, notching, punching and bending.
“Our students are educated on how to operate the ironworker machine, how it functions, where hazards are located and how they can develop,” Samuel Williams, a TSTC Welding Technology instructor, said. “(They) are also taught how to properly lift heavy material using proper body mechanics. If the material is much too heavy, they will ask for help.”
Scaffolding is an elevated structure that provides support for workers.
Instructor Michael Nagel said students use a fall protection harness with dual six-foot lanyards when working on a scaffolding structure to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 40 regulations.
“Students are taught different parts of scaffolds, including which parts need to be inspected before and after use,” he said. “A competent person must sign off on the scaffold each day prior to use.”
A welding station, or booth, is a designated area where welders can safely perform a variety of tasks. Instructor Justin Garza said the program reinforces emergency preparedness in five areas.
“Students learn about scenarios such as fire drills and evacuation procedures, first aid training, simulated equipment failures, spill and fume exposure response training and regular safety reviews,” Garza said.
Through hands-on training, TSTC students are taught to understand and apply these safety practices, ensuring they are prepared to work safely and efficiently in their future careers.
According to onetonline.org, welders, cutters, solderers and brazers earn a yearly median salary of $48,500 in Texas. These jobs were expected to increase in the state by 23% between 2020 and 2030, according to the website.
Registration for TSTC’s summer and fall semesters is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.
