Career Services

Western Welding Academy is on a mission to build a better generation of blue-collar craftsmen. We are forging the next generation of skilled welders through an unwavering commitment to work ethic, accountability, and integrity. By focusing on student outcomes, we provide industry-leading education and hands-on training in a real-world environment, preparing our students to meet and exceed the demands of the welding industry.

At Western Welding Academy, we believe wholeheartedly in our mission because we understand the fundamental role blue-collar tradespeople play in the fabric of America. This country was built on the backs of skilled workers—men and women who put in the hard labor that made our roads, bridges, buildings, and industries possible. Blue-collar men and women are the backbone of our economic system, vital to every sector from manufacturing to infrastructure. However, for too long, our nation has focused predominantly on white-collar jobs and the push to send every young person to college, leaving skilled trades underappreciated and underrepresented. Today, we are facing a monumental shift. A worldwide demographic collapse is causing industry and manufacturing to return to American soil, and yet, we lack the skilled labor force needed to meet the immense demand. Even before this shift, there was a substantial need for skilled tradespeople, but now, with global supply chains crumbling and reshoring becoming a necessity, the demand for welders and other skilled workers is skyrocketing. At Western Welding Academy, we see this as our mission, to equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive, to build strong careers, and to restore the backbone of America"s industrial strength. We are committed to filling this gap, one welder at a time, because we believe that the future of our country depends on the hands of those willing to build it.

About the role

• Career Services is a pivotal role at Western Welding Academy, acting as the primary point of contact for students throughout their educational journey specifically for career readiness and job placement. This dynamic position blends career development with student advocacy, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities. This position provides personalized career coaching, cultivates strong employer relationships to facilitate job placement, manages student discipline and compliance, connects students with vital resources, and analyzes student outcomes data to drive program improvement.

What you"ll do

• Single Point of Contact & Student Relations:
• • Serve as the primary point of contact for all students, providing guidance around career planning and direction on individual needs adjusting to campus.
  • Proactively engage with students to build positive relationships during orientation to support career planning prior to graduation..
  • Act as a student advocate, providing information about the local community to help students find resources they may need while enrolled.
• Career Services & Job Placement:
• • Provide individualized career advising, including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with employers, and proactively source job opportunities.
  • Track and report on student placement rates.
• Student Support & Success:
• • Conduct 2-week check-ins with new students to ensure a smooth transition and address any initial concerns.
  • Direct students to relevant resources, including health, financial, and external support services.
  • Create and maintain a buddy/mentor system for students.
  • Facilitate career planning for students prior to graduation.
• Discipline and Compliance:
• • Manage student discipline investigations, ensuring fair and consistent application of school policies.
  • Coordinate and administer drug testing programs in accordance with school and industry regulations.
• Contractor Relations:
• • Develop and maintain relationships with external contractors providing services to students, such as testing centers, or outside educational resources.
  • Ensure that contractor services are meeting the needs of students and aligned with school standards.
  • Manage contracts and agreements with external contractors.
• Student Outcomes Data:
• • Collect, analyze, and report on student outcomes data, including placement rates, graduation rates, and student satisfaction.
  • Use data to identify trends, evaluate program effectiveness, and make recommendations for improvement.
  • Maintain accurate records of student interactions, job placements, and other relevant metrics.
• Resource Management:
• • Develop and maintain a comprehensive library of career and student support resources.
  • Utilize career services software and databases to manage student data and track job placements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in career services, student support, or a related field with demonstrated transferable skills.
• Strong knowledge of job search strategies, resume and cover letter writing, and interview techniques.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and student information systems.
• Knowledge of the trades industry and local labor market is a plus.
• Experience with CRM software is a plus.
• Understanding of the Welding industry and labor market is a preferred

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