A student practices welding techniques at Fletcher Technical Community College. Fletcher was recently awarded a nearly $5 million federal SBA grant to provide workforce training in core shipbuilding trades, including pipe welding. (Photo by Misty Leigh McElroy/ Fletcher Technical Community College)
Schriever, LA - Fletcher Technical Community College has been awarded nearly $5 million from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide workforce training and technical assistance to small manufacturers throughout Southeast Louisiana’s shipbuilding corridor.
Fletcher is one of just 11 organizations nationwide selected to receive funding through the SBA’s Manufacturing in America Empower to Grow (E2G) Grant Initiative. The $50 million national initiative is designed to provide hands-on training and technical assistance to small manufacturers in critical industries.
Fletcher will receive $4.99 million to serve small manufacturers across Terrebonne, Lafourche, Assumption, St. Mary, Iberia and St. Martin parishes.
“This investment represents an incredible opportunity for our region and the industries that have long defined Southeast Louisiana’s maritime economy,” said Dr. Kristine Strickland, Chancellor of Fletcher Technical Community College. “Our communities have generations of expertise in building, maintaining and supporting vessels that serve critical industries across the nation. This funding allows Fletcher to build on that strength by helping small manufacturers develop both the skilled workforce and the business capacity they need to grow, compete and create opportunities right here at home.”
Through the initiative, Fletcher will provide hands-on, in-person technical bootcamps in core shipbuilding trades, including ship fitting, pipefitting, pipe welding and marine electrical. The college will also provide manufacturing-specific business instruction designed to help participating companies strengthen their capabilities in areas including federal contracting, system registration, financial management and capability development.
The initiative brings together Fletcher’s existing workforce training expertise, industry partnerships and business resources to support small firms throughout the region’s shipbuilding supply chain.
“Fletcher’s mission has always been closely connected to the workforce and economic needs of the communities we serve,” Strickland said. “This grant gives us an opportunity to expand that impact by working directly with small businesses to strengthen their operations and ensure they have access to the training and resources necessary to succeed.”
For more information about Fletcher and its programs, visit Fletcher.edu.
About Fletcher Technical Community College
Fletcher Technical Community College, a member of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, is a vital educational resource serving the Bayou Region. The college offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, short-term workforce training, and free adult education programs such as high school equivalency preparation, digital literacy courses, and English language instruction. Fletcher is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that strengthens Louisiana’s workforce and supports the economic growth of South Louisiana. Visit www.fletcher.edu for more information.