Monday, August 27, 2012

United Alloy Needs Qualified Welders


Frustrated by lack of qualified candidates, business starts grow-your-own internship. (Janesville Gazette, 8/26/2012)

Excerpt: New business is expected to propel United Alloy to more years of record-setting revenues. 

But Terri Roessler, chief executive officer of the manufacturer of diesel fuel tanks, generator frames and other heavy metal fabrications, is frustrated with her company’s inability to hire qualified welders to fuel the anticipated growth. 

“Fifty percent of my time in the last seven months has been spent on this,” Roessler said. 

She lays some of the blame on the state education system, which she said does not put enough emphasis on technical education. 

Some economists counter, however, that companies such as United Alloy might need to pay more to lure the workers they need.


The Occupational Outlook Handbook lists median pay for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazer at $17.04 an hour or $35,340 per year.  Alloy's annual range:  $30,160 to $37,440.


In the meantime, Blackhawk works with employers through its apprenticeship programs.


Related article:
United Alloy ditches conventions—and business booms.  (Janesville Gazette, 11/18/2011)


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