Lakeshore College in Cleveland, Wisconsin has received Provisional Accreditation from the American Welding Society (AWS) under the AWS QC47:2016-AMD2 Specification for Certification of Welders and Accreditation of Test Facilities. This accreditation allows Lakeshore College to conduct welder performance qualification testing using approved welding processes that meet national standards. The college is also authorized to submit welder credential packages for certification and listing in the AWS National Registry of Certified Welders.
Rachel Kroeplien, dean of applied technology & economic development at Lakeshore College, said, “This achievement underscores Lakeshore College’s dedication to workforce development and excellence in welding education and certification services. This milestone strengthens our ability to serve regional employers and support workforce development.”
The provisional accreditation covers both on-site and off-site testing as specified in the Accredited Test Facility quality manual. It remains valid until January 1, 2027. To keep its status, Lakeshore College will undergo a three-year review cycle with an on-site audit every three years and annual self-audits during other years.
Lakeshore College educates more than 9,000 students annually across several campuses including Cleveland, downtown Manitowoc, and Sheboygan. Approximately 800 students graduate each year; associate degree graduates report a median salary of $61,355 within six months after graduation. The college was ranked #2 nationally by Washington Monthly, #17 by Forbes, #2 in Wisconsin by WalletHub.com, recognized as a top-150 two-year college by the Aspen Institute, received a 2024 Bellwether Award, and was named Large Business/Industry of the Year for 2021 by the Chamber of Manitowoc County.
In addition to educational opportunities provided by institutions like Lakeshore College, organizations such as the Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce play a role in supporting community initiatives and strengthening local businesses to drive economic development. The chamber offers renovated conference rooms for member gatherings (source) and includes over 800 members with some operating internationally (source). Their mission focuses on betterment through policy influence and expertise (source), while serving businesses across Sheboygan County with diverse programming (source). Deidre Martinez serves as chief executive officer (source).
For details about Lakeshore’s welding programs or AWS accreditation standards visit their respective websites.
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