Skilled welders and other crafts people are key components for manufacturing companies, but a shortage of local talent in these trades threatens to slow companies and job development. At the same time, people throughout the Northwest and in Alaska can't always find the training they need to enter welding and other trades.

As a prototype that’s working, we offer the Swan Island Training Center.

On the grounds of our Portland shipyard, this joint venture between Vigor Industrial and Portland Community College provides welding training opportunities that support workforce development for Vigor and other area companies.

Interested students can sign up through the College. Most class sessions contain a range of abilities, from beginner to advance. Training is structured such that each student can work towards individual goals.

Vigor companies also work with trade unions, industrial development agencies and others in our other communities to provide workforce training. We employ both journey and apprentice-level workers on projects. And we're always looking for new, innovative ways to provide training and development in all our communities in Oregon, Washington and Alaska.

We invite your suggestions. And if you’re looking for a position, we urge you to check our jobs listings and contact your local community and technical colleges to inquire about training.