Effects of Moraine Park Technical College's welding bootcamp on student enrollment and success

Abstract

At the time of this study it was unclear why Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC) was experiencing a reduction in enrollment of the technical diploma welding program. At the same time there was an increase in enrollment in the welding bootcamp and a large need of welders from industry. This study was completed to determine why students were choosing the shortterm welding training option as opposed to the technical diploma welding program. This study also served to determine if those skills taught in a short-term format would make students suitable for employment in local organizations. Extensive surveys were distributed to students and employers to ensure that the voices of these stakeholders were heard. After reviewing the data, it was found that MPTC should continue to offer more shortterm welding programs to allow students to graduate faster and move into the workforce at a quicker pace. By creating more directed, faster paced programs students could complete a program and enter the workforce in a much shorter time. With programs created around speed and useable skills MPTC would see an increase in welding enrollment and employer support.