Marathon Petroleum grant enhances training in welding and machining tech at EPCC

On Wednesday, officials with Marathon Petroleum and El Paso Community College, as well as students and teachers in the Welding and Machining Technology programs at the Advanced Technology Center (ATC) met to discuss the partnership and celebrate a new grant.

Kathy Huffman, Director of the Marathon Petroleum Foundation, VJ Smith, Marathon Petroleum, El Paso, Manager, Government & Public Affairs,  and Ashley Cooke, Administrative Assistant visited El Paso Community College (EPCC) students and faculty of the Welding and Machining Technology programs at the Advanced Technology Center (ATC) to discuss the insight and advantages of the partnership between EPCC and Marathon Petroleum for workforce development.

During the meeting, Marathon Petroleum presented a grant of $167,000 to EPCC for its Welding and Machining Technology programs

housed at the Valle Verde campus.

EPCC officials say the new grant funds the latest equipment to train students in these high-demand fields.

“Education and ongoing training are required for today’s workers and the success of our community,” Dr. William Serrata, EPCC President said. “EPCC fills a vital role for our region’s employers to ensure that their employees have the skills they need to be successful in the workplace.”

EPCC officials added that, through the grant, the college has expanded its Welding and Machining Technology programs and offers additional credentials for students to receive advanced certifications.

“Certified graduates expand the skill base of our regional workforce by being prepared for work with training in the professionalism and safety required in modern industry.”