AccelerateMS is investing in Northwest Mississippi Community College to strengthen the region’s workforce pipeline through a new commercial electrical program and expanding the college’s robotic welding training.
The investment enhances training opportunities for both credit and non-credit students at the Batesville Concourse and DeSoto Centers, equipping labs with commercial electrical systems and robotic welding technology. These programs prepare students for modern manufacturing and industrial environments where electrical systems, automation, and robotic welding intersect.
“By expanding access to advanced technical training, Northwest is helping meet the workforce needs of Mississippi’s industrial economy—preparing students for careers that demand technical versatility, safety awareness, and proficiency in advanced automation technologies,” said Shelika Hooker, director of investments and initiatives at AccelerateMS.
“These programs were established to meet the increasing regional demand for skilled workers in advanced manufacturing and construction industries while supporting workforce development and economic growth,” said Katie Broadway, director of career-technical education & program advancement at Northwest. “Together, these initiatives further strengthen the college’s commitment to workforce readiness, industry partnership, and economic development across the service area.”
With the $1.9 million investment, Northwest expanded workforce training capacity in high-demand fields, adding 36 seats annually to the commercial electrical and welding programs. Additionally, equipment will be used to support direct industry training as needed in the region.
Through the commercial electrical credit program, students can earn a 30-hour career certificate while gaining hands-on experience in commercial and industrial electrical systems, automation fundamentals, and industrial maintenance. Robotic welding training will equip students and incumbent workers with essential skills in automated welding processes widely used across advanced manufacturing. Both programs are currently offered as 30-hour career certificates. The welding program will expand in the near future to include a 45-hour technical certificate option and a 60-hour associate of applied science degree pathway.
Non-credit training will also be offered to local business and industry employees, focusing on commercial and industrial electrical systems, robotic welding operations, and industrial maintenance. This flexible training model allows employers to upskill their workforce and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.