WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – A long-term corporate partner of Pennsylvania College of Technology is extending its commitment to the school’s popular welding program.
Hypertherm Associates, a U.S.-based manufacturer of industrial cutting products and software, is providing the college with 10 new machines as part of a two-year entrustment renewal. Six Powermax65 and four Powermax105 plasma cutting systems are replacing units that were provided to the college under a previous entrustment agreement.
The machines are commonly used to cut materials – such as aluminum, mild steel and stainless steel – and for gouging to remove old welds. Both systems rely on a power supply to convert electrical energy into a plasma arc that melts material.
Penn College welding students use the units for everything from beveling pipe to cutting one-eighth-inch plate. The machines are also employed for welding competitions hosted by the college, with prizes provided by Hypertherm. As part of the entrustment, the company offers as-needed technical support.
“We are grateful for Hypertherm’s continued partnership and generous support of our welding program,” said Shanin L. Dougherty, corporate relations officer. “Hypertherm’s commitment to our students provides them with access to state-of-the-art equipment and positions them at the forefront of the industry.”
Welding and metal fabrication is the second largest program cluster at Penn College with over 360 students.
“Hypertherm is excited to strengthen and expand our partnership with Pennsylvania College of Technology. We are dedicated to supporting the welding education program to help advance the knowledge and skills within the profession,” said Michael Veres, distribution sales manager for Hypertherm’s Mid-Atlantic territory. “By familiarizing students with Hypertherm technology, not only do our industry, suppliers and customers benefit, but students also receive valuable hands-on experience that enhances their career opportunities in the field.”
Hypertherm has partnered with the college since 2015. The latest entrustment is valued at $57,600. The company is a member of the Visionary Society ($100,000-$499,999) on Penn College’s Donor Wall.
For information regarding Penn College’s welding-related degrees and other majors offered by the School of Engineering Technologies, call 570-327-4520 or visit www.pct.edu/et.
Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. Visit www.pct.edu, email admissions@pct.edu or call toll-free 800-367-9222.