PCDA receives Silver Excellence awards for ‘Weld for Work’ project

Ponca City Development Authority received two Silver Excellence in Economic Development awards for “Weld for Work,” a project in the categories of Human Capital and Partnership with Educational Institutions of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

The honor was presented at an awards ceremony Tuesday, Oct. 2, during the IEDC Annual Conference in Atlanta, Ga.

“We could not do this type of program without support from our local industry and industry partners,” said Kat Long, Small Business Coordinator at PCDA.

She thanked MJ&H Fabrications for starting the program two years ago, Mertz for participating this year and Pioneer Technology Center for hosting the “Weld for Work” competition.

“Weld For Work” was started by Gary Harvey, owner of MJ&H Fabrications, in partnership with Pioneer Technology Center. It is a competition designed to create a pipeline of skilled workers while offering an avenue for workforce development.  In 2018, “Weld For Work”added Mertz Manufacturing, another Ponca City company  interested in hiring from the graduates who completed with high score competencies.

Recipients of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards are recognized as the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders.

These awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities.