Article from The Daily Home Update Edition 2018 – Photos by Tucker Webb
A new program offered at the St. Clair-Pell City campus of Jefferson State Community College is providing single mothers with career training in an in-demand field.
The Single Mom Welding Program began in January with 10 students enrolled through scholarships provided by the Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham.
“They appreciate the opportunity they’ve gotten,” said Jefferson State welding instructor Danny Taylor. “They’re going to use what they’re learning to make a positive impact on their lives and for their families.”
Taylor described welding as a “field more women are getting involved in,” and he described the students as “very enthused. We’ve not had one person be late for class, and we’ve had no absentees. They’re making the most of it.”
Pell City resident Amber Moten said she believes the program is “a great opportunity. I want to show my two girls that women can do anything and that being a female shouldn’t hold them back.”
Shantyle Kelly of Leeds said that the training “is a great opportunity for me and my two children. It’s pretty awesome. I think it will open many doors for me and other single mothers.”
Sherry Johnson of Ashville said she looks forward to attending the daily class. “It’s a new experience, but it’s very good. I’m showing my children that no matter what you go through in life, you pick yourself up and keep going.”
Students earn a welding certificate upon completion of the fast- track program (which also includes OSHA training) and will be ready to enter the welding work force, Taylor said.
