Moraine Park Technical College welding students will benefit from the most cutting-edge technology, thanks to a generous donation from longtime partner, Maysteel Industries. To help address the technology advances in the field, Maysteel donated a new Fiber Laser Welder and materials valued at more than $40,000.
Fiber laser welding is a cutting-edge welding technique that allows welders a higher level of precision when bonding materials. For Maysteel, the use of this technology allows for a cleaner weld, requiring less production and finishing time–making it the preferred method of welding in their production line.
“Our industry thrives when we invest in the schools and programs that develop tomorrow’s workforce. By donating a fiber laser weld cell to Moraine Park Technical College, we’re helping ensure students gain hands-on experience with the same advanced technology driving our industry forward. MPTC has an incredible track record of advancing continuing education in manufacturing, and we’re proud to support their work in preparing the next generation of welders and fabricators to step into the workforce with confidence,” Kevin Matkin, CEO at Maysteel, said.
As longtime partners, Maysteel and Moraine Park are familiar with working through industry needs together. So, when the need for skilled fiber laser welders presented itself, Maysteel met with Moraine Park to integrate it into the curriculum. For Moraine Park, a vital part of the learning that happens is the hands-on experience, and having a Fiber Laser Welder for students to learn on was essential to creating a well-rounded curriculum.
“Our partnership with Maysteel is an ideal business and industry relationship– they are truly helping us teach the next generation of welders,” Steve Horvath, associate dean of trades at Moraine Park, said. “Thanks to their generosity, approximately 75 students each year will have the opportunity to learn the most advanced welding training, making them immediately ready for their careers.”
The new Fiber Laser Welder was installed on August 12 in the welding and fabrication space of the new Advanced Manufacturing Center at the West Bend Campus.
Maysteel has noted that Moraine Park graduates are heavily sought after in their recruitment process–bringing a next level of skill and professionalism to their production floor.
To help grow this area of learning, Moraine Park has secured grant dollars to help build curriculum around Fiber Laser Welder education with the intent to embed it in the current welding program and expand it to industry partnership training.
Pictured: Carl Priesgen, Senior Prototype Technician at Maysteel, with the fiber laser welder