By Morgan Taylor, Reporter
HENRYETTA, Oklahoma – An OSHA Certification training and welding courses are being held for the MCN Reintegration Program (RIP) participants.
This course is made possible by partnership between the MCN RIP and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT).
The class is held on the MCN RIP campus located in Henryetta only and available to MCN programs and citizens.
On Dec 5, participants started OSHA Certification with welding classes beginning on Dec 7.
The MCN RIP Welding School is an eight-week course that leads to the possibility of being selected for an additional four-week advanced course.
MCN RIP Caseworker Andrew Stacy claims that participants in RIP have first “dibs” on the available spots in the program.
“If we don’t have a full class other programs are available to send clients down here,” Stacy said. “ We have clients from the (MCN) Employment and Training Program and the (MCN) Voc-Rehab program as well.”
The amount of spots available is depending upon the amount of students the instructor is comfortable handling.
“Right now the instructor will accept up to ten students to make sure they get the proper amount of one-on-one time,” Stacy said.
A funding source must be determined before entering the course. According to Stacy the MCN RIP funds the amount of $3,200 per student for all RIP participants.
“We cover all PPE and the cost of the materials that is included with the class,” Stacy said. “Other programs will provide funding for their clients so we allow them to do that with the expenditure of their funds.”
Clients coming from these programs may be seeking employment or ways to obtain trades and build resumes.
“I can’t speak for everyone that comes to the class but I can say our reintegration clients are in need of employment,” Stacy said. “This is one way we can give them a tool to be successful in the work environment while seeking jobs.”
It is possible for participants to obtain entry level positions upon completion of the course.
“When we were talking to OSUIT about forming this partnership, we wanted to create an entry level program where you just come in and you don’t know anything about it,” Stacy said. “We want this class to teach you the basics of welding for entry level positions when you do enter that workforce.”
The MCN RIP plans to hold multiple courses for MCN program participants through the next year. For those with questions on future courses or seeking information regarding RIP can contact the MCN RIP at 918-549-2620.
