ESAB Welding and Florence-Darlington Technical College gained a close relationship over the years.
“They’ve donated over a hundred different welding machines to the college, as well as provided many levels of expertise, said Florence-Darlington Tech. Director of Public Relations, Clay Williams.
Even though the business will be moving out of the Pee Dee, the college will not suffer for it has a history of business and industry in the area.
“It’s sad. We’re sympathetic to anybody when they’re having to pull up stakes and leave town. But at the same time, we have been here for 50 years and we have seen the economy in its ups and downs. Many of the Pee Dee industry and manufacturers use welding. So even though we are losing a very valuable partner of Florence-Darlington Tech. We’re not worried about it at all, said Williams.”
Lance Weatherford, a student at the college says for local residents like himself, the opportunity for work in the industry will be slim.
“ESAB is an option for any of these young men here. It will be a hassle coming out of the academy, young or old trying to get into the workforce, and now that the business is closing it takes away a lot of opportunity for people, said Weatherford.”
In a press release ESAB announced it will officially close its doors by the end of March 2016.