Aaron Barnhill at KFDM-TV reports on a new Shipfitter Apprenticeship Program in Port Arthur that is offering Southeast Texans a paid path into shipbuilding, combining college coursework with hands-on training. Gulf Copper’s Shipfitter Apprenticeship Program, which is certified by the U.S. Department of Labor, runs six semesters over 22 months - teaching skills needed to build ships, including pipe-fitting, plate-fitting, tack-welding, blueprint reading and light machining. The company started the program in response to workforce challenges as older generations retire, aiming to invest in education and training for younger Workers. The Apprenticeship Program is a partnership with Lamar State College Port Arthur. Apprentices spend 16 hours a week in classroom and laboratory work at the college and 36 hours a week in on-the-job training at Gulf Copper. Training includes time in the welding lab and shop, as well as tasks such as grinding, learning calculations and blueprint analysis, and the assembly process.

For More On This Apprenticeship And Training Labor News Story, Go To: Gulf Copper apprenticeship program offers inside look at Southeast Texas shipyard jobs