Summer welding classes have begun at Tarkio Tech. (Submitted photo)

Summer welding class size at Tarkio Technology Institute in Tarkio, Missouri, has doubled over the past few years and the Jenison Residence Hall now houses two-thirds of the class. Nine students from Missouri, Nebraska, and Iowa began class on June 2 and six of them are living on campus.

Welding classes are the most sought-after program offered at Tarkio Tech. Seven of the summer students are taking the Welding Technology program, which allows them to earn the American Welding Society certification upon completion. Two students are returning for the Pipe Welding technology program that prepares a graduate for certification as a pipe welder in the manufacturing or job shop areas. The expanded territory for the recruiters and addition of the residence hall benefits Tarkio Tech, but more importantly, the entire region by providing qualified, future employees for area employers.