SIC donates welders to Hardin County Schools agriculture program

Southeastern Illinois College has donated two welders to the Hardin County Schools agriculture program to support hands-on technical training for high school students.

The donation comes as part of ongoing efforts to modernize equipment in SIC’s welding laboratory. Previously utilized welders were identified as suitable for continued instructional use and were provided to Hardin County Schools to enhance hands-on agricultural mechanics instruction.

Doug Mayfield, Dean of Career and Technical Education at SIC, said the partnership reflects the College’s commitment to regional workforce development.

“Our goal is to strengthen career pathways across Southern Illinois,” Mayfield said. “When we upgrade equipment, we look for opportunities to place usable tools into the hands of students who can benefit from them. Supporting Hardin County’s agriculture program helps students build practical welding skills that are essential for both agriculture and industry.”

The additional equipment expands instructional capacity within the Hardin County program and provides students with increased access to hands-on training. Welding skills remain in high demand across multiple industries, including manufacturing, construction and agriculture.

SIC continues to invest in modern training environments and collaborate with regional schools to strengthen workforce readiness and technical skill development.

For more information about Career and Technical Education programs at SIC, visit sic.edu/cte. Summer and fall registration begins March 23. Contact advising@sic.edu or call 618-252-5400, ext. 4130 to set up an appointment.

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