Triangle Tech opens Chambersburg campus, filling need for local welders

Triangle Tech, a post-secondary technical school, announced Wednesday the opening of a new educational facility in Chambersburg.

The Pennsylvania-based school will now have six locations in the state - Pittsburgh, Greensburg, DuBois, Sunbury, Bethlehem and Chambersburg. 

Students at the Chambersburg facility will have the opportunity to earn an "Associate in Specialized Technology Degree (AST) in Welding and Fabrication Technology" in 16-

months. Traditional programs usually require 24 months to complete, according to a press release.

Tim McMahon, president of Triangle Tech, said they saw a need from manufacturers in the area for certified workers.

“Business owners want to expand, but they need skilled technicians so they can continue to grow," he said. "Currently, they can’t find enough qualified employees to complete the jobs at the entry-level and advanced level."

Students enrolled in the AST Degree program will complete exams for plate and structural welds through the American Welding Society, as well as certification for pipe fitting and piping systems.

The first welding classes have already begun, with the next round starting on Feb. 17, 2020.

L. Michael Ross, president of the  Franklin County Area Development Corporation, welcomed the school as an entity that could benefit the area. 

“We are confident that Triangle Tech can help fill the void with their stellar reputation for developing highly skilled, dependable graduates," he said. "We welcome Triangle Tech to Franklin County because the need for skilled welders has been a constant theme among area employers.”

In addition to welding programs, the school also offers associate degrees in CADD

with Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Technology; Maintenance Electricity and Construction Technology, Refrigeration, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology; and Carpentry and Construction Technology.

The Chambersburg facility is scheduled to add more programs next year.

Triangle Tech is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools under the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students interested in applying would be eligible to participate in federal and state financial aid programs.

The school is also an approved training institution for veterans and family members of

the U.S. armed forces, active duty, reserves, National Guard and disabled veterans, according to the release.

The Chambersburg facility is located at 1669 Opportunity Ave. within the Cumberland Valley Business Park. More information regarding tours, courses and applications is available on their website.

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