Bank of America expands partnership with Lone Star College System to support welding students

HOUSTON, TX -- Lone Star College-East Aldine Center welding students will benefit from a new $50,000 grant from Bank of America that will help remove financial barriers for students pursuing hands-on training and careers in the high-demand welding industry.

Bank of America’s funding will cover equipment expenses for approximately 40 students in 2026-2027. On top of tuition, welding students pay more than $1,300 for tools needed in their training program, which can be a challenge for prospective students.

“Receiving the Bank of America grant gave me a real start toward the career I want in welding,” said Alonso Garcia Hernandez, LSC-East Aldine Center student. “Having my own welding kit means I can practice and learn the right way without worrying about borrowing tools or missing out on class. It also took a lot of stress off my family because good welding gear is expensive, and we didn’t have to pay for it ourselves. Your help means I can focus on building my skills, getting certified and working toward a good-paying job in the future. I can’t wait to see what the future brings when I graduate.”

Many students face difficult financial choices, such as whether to pay rent, buy food or purchase equipment needed for class. Bank of America’s partnership is helping remove that obstacle.

“The median household income in the area we serve is significantly lower compared to Harris County as a whole,” said Reyna Tippetts, LSC-East Aldine Center dean. “A career in welding can offer economically distressed families an opportunity to break poverty cycles. This financial support from Bank of America is helping make that possible for many students.”

Entry-level salaries for welders typically start at around $45,000, and experienced welders can earn more than $70,000. However, because the average American welder is 55 years old, the sector is seeing mass retirements each year. According to the American Welding Society, 320,500 new welding professionals will be needed to support several industries across the country by 2029.

“Students shouldn’t have to choose between paying for required equipment and pursuing the training that can lead to a good career,” said Hong Ogle, president of Bank of America Houston. “By helping cover the cost of required welding equipment, we’re removing a financial barrier for students while helping Houston-area employers build the skilled workforce they need.”

LSC-East Aldine Center offers an associate degree in welding, as well as a Shielded Metal Arc Welding Level I Certificate, a Gas Metal Arc Welding Level I Certificate, and a Welding Level II Certificate.

“By removing barriers to welding career pathways, students can earn valuable credentials that ultimately lead to economic stability,” said Nicole Robinson Gauthier, LSCS associate vice chancellor, Foundation Advancement and Donor Engagement. “Investment from our business partners helps us grow these programs to meet workforce demand in our communities.”

Visit LoneStar.edu/Programs-Of-Study to learn more about workforce programs at Lone Star College System.