Due to a lack of instructors, the future of the welding program at Eastern Arizona College’s Gila Pueblo Campus was uncertain. That problem was solved when Freeport McMoRan agreed to lend Ernie Baca and John Freeman to the college; Baca now leads welding courses four days a week, with Freeman working the fifth day.

Not only did the program gain two skilled instructors; it also has a new space at the Miami Regional Training Center, which the college celebrated with an open house last Wednesday.

Baca said they spent this summer getting the spacious building ready, cleaning it up for the arrival of 12 new welding machines supplied by the manufacturer, Lincoln Electric. Those machines were in action Wednesday as students  demonstrated MIG, TIG and stick welding.

However, the college hasn’t finished enhancing the welding program. “This is just the start,” said Baca. “We’re going to grow this until they say ‘stop,’ and at this point I don’t see that happening.” The facility will be getting 15 new welding booths this month, as well as a new ventilation system.

Baca said the welding program will give students the ability to enter a career in an industry “sorely short of skilled individuals.” But, he added, it’s not just for students seeking a career field; it’s also for adult learners who just want to pick up the skill.

Baca also saluted the college’s partners in building the program; Freeport McMoRan, the Cobre Valley Institute of Technology (CVIT), Lincoln Electric and Resolution Copper.

“These guys (Baca and Freeman) are passionate about what they’re doing. They’ve connected with the students,” said CVIT Superintendent Mike O’Neal. “We’re excited about the vision, and it’s just going to keep growing.”