Butler Tech marked a significant achievement in its commitment to hands-on technical education with the grand opening of its expanded Welding labs. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on the Fairfield Township Campus, featured remarks from local elected officials, Butler Tech staff, and students, with industry partners and community members joining the celebration.
The lab expansion, funded in part by a $450,000 grant from Ohio’s House Bill 2 Capital Budget, includes new state-of-the-art equipment and additional space for the Welding Technology program. The program has experienced steady growth, with enrollment increasing from 56 students in 2017 to 108 in 2023, reflecting a rising interest in welding as a high-demand, rewarding career path. This expansion enables Butler Tech to accommodate more students, providing them with the opportunity to gain hands-on skills and certifications that lead directly to employment in Ohio’s growing industrial sectors.
During the ceremony, elected officials and Butler Tech leaders emphasized the importance of career technical education in preparing students for essential roles within the local workforce. Students also shared their own stories, expressing enthusiasm for the advanced training facilities that are helping them achieve their career aspirations. Following the ceremony, attendees toured the expanded labs, seeing firsthand the high-quality training environment Butler Tech has created for its students.
By investing in modern facilities and meeting the needs of both students and the regional workforce, Butler Tech continues to transform lives and prepare the next generation of skilled professionals for successful futures.