Penn College welding programs ‘spark’ donation

Approximately 100 Pennsylvania College of Technology students per semester will benefit from the generosity of a leading manufacturer of welding equipment and solutions.

Abicor Binzel USA Inc. donated more than $16,000 worth of equipment, including a gas metal arc welding gun, a shielding gas management system and two fume extraction systems for the college’s 55,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art welding lab.

“We are grateful to add Abicor Binzel to the growing list of Corporate Tomorrow Makers dedicated to a skilled, high-tech workforce,” said Elizabeth A. Biddle, senior corporate relations director. “The company’s equipment donation is truly an investment in the next generation of welding professionals. The college is very appreciative of Abicor Binzel’s support.”

Students will receive hands-on experience welding with a high-quality GMAW gun. The shielding gas management system will expose students to a product that increases efficiency and optimizes the use of shielding gases. The fume extraction systems are expected to provide ventilation for the college’s automated laser room and manual welding areas. The systems ensure welding fumes are filtered, offering an improved environment for students.

“Both two- and four-year students will benefit from Abicor Binzel’s donation,” said  Ryan P. Good, assistant professor of welding. “We pride ourselves in exposing our students to as much technology and as many manufacturer options as possible. That’s why there’s tremendous demand for our graduates. Abicor Binzel’s commitment is a valuable addition to our welding program.”

“Abicor Binzel is pleased to partner with Penn College and its welding department,” said Jeff Barron, manager – Key Accounts Group – Arc. “A relationship like this proves to be mutually beneficial because students will be able to utilize new Abicor Binzel equipment, gaining familiarity with our products. We believe that students will gain an understanding of the benefits of our welding solutions and will remember us after graduating when they are in positions of purchasing influence.”

Good agrees with that sentiment.

“Firsthand experience and knowledge provide comfort and confidence when choosing equipment. There is no doubt that once these students graduate and are presented with problems to solve, they will gravitate toward products that they have used and manufacturers that they trust,” he said.

Penn College offers a bachelor’s degree in welding & fabrication engineering technology, associate degrees in non-destructive testing, metal fabrication technology and welding technology, and a certificate in welding. For information about those programs and other majors offered by the School of Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520.

Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. Email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.