February 25, 2025
East Central Community College (ECCC) is expanding its workforce training initiatives with the new mobile welding center relocating to the Leake County Correctional Facility. This innovative site aims to provide incarcerated individuals with welding skills to support their successful reintegration into society.
The mobile welding lab, acquired by ECCC through funding from AccelerateMS, offers basic welding training, prioritizing individuals who are 18 to 24 months away from release. The program’s goal is to equip participants with marketable skills, increase their employability, and instill confidence as they transition back into the workforce.
“Providing these individuals with technical skills not only enhances their job prospects but also contributes to reducing recidivism,” said ECCC Industrial Workforce Development Coordinator, Lynne Carey. “We want to ensure they have a pathway to a stable career and a better quality of life upon release.”
By training individuals in a high-demand field, ECCC’s initiative aligns with Leake County and the surrounding region’s workforce needs, helping to bridge the gap between skilled labor shortages and economic development. The program also fosters personal growth and rehabilitation, giving participants a sense of purpose and a tangible skillset that can lead to gainful employment.
ECCC remains committed to creating accessible educational and workforce training opportunities for all, including those seeking a fresh start. The mobile welding lab is part of the college’s broader mission to equip individuals with the tools they need for success, regardless of their background or circumstances.
