BCCC Taking Applications For Metalwork Training Program

Bucks County Community College is accepting applications for a metalwork training program for those who are unemployed or under-employed.

The full-time, 12-week training program focuses on metalwork and manufacturing fundamentals. It begins Monday, May 20 at the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center in Bristol.

The training is free for applicants who meet certain criteria. Others may enroll by paying tuition.

The metalwork training program introduces students to the fundamental concepts and hands-on skills required in advanced manufacturing and a variety of industries. The 12-week program consists of four days a week in class, and one day a week off-site for company tours. Students will receive a certificate of completion, OSHA 10 safety certification and forklift safety training, plus one-on-one job placement services. The graduation and job-placement rate is over 90 percent, according to information from the college.

Prospective students must attend one of two mandatory information sessions on Tuesday, April 9 and Thursday, April 18. The sessions take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Gene and Marlene Epstein Campus at Lower Bucks (1304 Veterans Highway, Bristol).

The information session will enable prospective students to apply to the program and to determine if they are eligible for free funding. Students who do not qualify for funding may enroll in the program for a tuition fee of $6,000.

Representatives of local companies looking to hire skilled workers will be on hand at the information session to answer questions and help select candidates for the program.

"The ideal candidate is someone who likes to work with their hands, problem-solve and is looking to start a new career. Accepted students will work one-on-one with a job developer to connect those who successfully complete the program with local employers," the college said in a program announcement.

Requirements for the program include:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or possess a Green Card
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must have a high school diploma or GED
• Must pass an aptitude test, drug screening, background check, and a physical test
• Must have reliable transportation to commute to training and to a variety of industry field trips

For more information about the program, call Stephanie Wenger at 215-968-8478.

To register for a information session on April 9 or April 18, call 267-685-4884 or email Bridget.Hughes@bucks.edu.