MERIDIAN - - Tim Pigford worked for Remy-Reman for five years – working up to second shift shipping supervisor.  Then, the recession hit.

The 31-year-old Collinsville resident lost his job, a prospect some 2,450 Lauderdale Countians are facing.  “They told me I lost my job and the economy like it is – well, there is not a lot of opportunity in Meridian right now,” Pigford said.

Colleague Donald Creekmore, 37, from Russell, also worked at the facility.  He, too, was laid off.

But when Debbie McWhorter from Meridian Community College (MCC) visited the company as a part of a Rapid Response team, a sense of hope was restored. “When the lady from MCC came out to Remy-Reman to talk to us, and we saw the college was offering a free welding class, a couple of us signed up and here we are,” Pigford said.

“MCC is striving to assist people who have been laid off due to the current economic situation and those who need new skills to help with their job search efforts,” said Dan Talley, assistant dean for community and business development

“The free Dislocated Worker Program class, offered through the West Alabama-East Mississippi (WAEM) Regional Initiative and funded by the Department of Labor,” he explained, “is just one way in which the College is offering a hand up in these down times.”

Tim Pigford (green jacket) and fellow classmate Jack Creighton adjust the cutting torch during the free welding class offered through MCC.		Robert Flucker took advantage of the opportunity to take free welding classes and may turn it into a career.

According to Jim Dilley, instructor for the class and recently hired through the WAEM Regional Initiative, the class is for individuals who want to learn and have a basic understanding of welding practices.  The 8-week class will include some classroom time and shop time.

“Upon completion of the class, students will know if welding is a trade they would like to pursue.  If students are willing to pursue welding as a career, they can enroll in a new one-year certificate program, Welding and Fitting, MCC will offer in the fall.”

Looking for a good career, Robert Fluker, 23, of Meridian is another individual who learned about the welding class. “I was at the WIN Job Center and they sent the brochures around and I saw the welding class and it was something that I always wanted to do. I feel like it’s an opportunity so I did it,” Fluker said.

“I want to try and get a basic understanding of welding and how to do it. And after this, I hope to pursue my dream of going on to become a welder,” he said.

Creekmore was also appreciative of the welding class. “It gave me a feeling of security … something I can fall back on that I know will pay the bills.

“And to me,” he added, “it’s a perfect opportunity. I’ve wanted to go back to school and do other things and I’d love to get certified in welding – and get me a better job.”