Welding technology building project begins with site preparation

WINTERVILLE — Site preparation is underway at the future home of Pitt Community College’s Welding Technology program.

Since Monday, heavy machinery has been clearing trees, leveling ground and removing debris just beyond the left field fence of Minges-Overton Baseball Complex. When the $17.7 million-project has been completed in November 2025, Pitt will have 30,000 square feet of much-needed instructional space for what is presently the state’s largest welding program.

“Our program has been so restricted for the past 10 years due to lack of space, so it’s been exciting to think about the opportunities the new building presents,” says Keith Kinlaw, chair of PCC’s Welding Technology Department. “There’s programming we’ve wanted to add over the years but couldn’t because of space constraints. Being able to finally explore those options, knowing we’ll have the ability to offer them and further enhance training for our students, has been a welcome change.”

Pitt County Commissioners toured Pitt’s current welding facility two years ago. After their visit, they committed $16.4 million toward construction of the new building, which will feature two fabrication shops and 96 welding booths, including space for robotic welding instruction.

“The welding skills we teach help keep industry in this area,” Kinlaw said. “Those organizations know they can lean on us for staffing and future growth.”