The new training facility opened at the LTC Mansfield Campus Thursday, July 9, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. during the official dedication ceremony.

Our workers on the IP Maintenance job site in Mansfield will be the first students, with approximately 40 individuals beginning classes Monday, July 13, 2009, in all available disciplines including electrical instrumentation, maintenance support mechanic, millwright, pipefitter and welding training, using National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) qualifications. The facility will open to community students at a later date.

“IP, Zachry Holdings, Inc. and LTC recognized the similarities around training that utilizes a combination of NCCER and site-specific, hands-on study to produce a qualified crafts person,” said Randy Sheppard, business manager for Zachry Holdings, Inc. “The similarities led us to join forces in the creation of a training program that will provide skilled craft workers for the future of the Mansfield area.”

Jill Heard, LTC campus dean, said that the partnership between Zachry Holdings, IP and LTC to create the program was a first for the college and will provide opportunities for LTC students during the day, while upping their enrollment numbers through nighttime course offerings.

“It is most unusual in this region for a business to do something to this extent,” she said. “What makes this special is that we are a small, building-bound college and this is a boon and boost for us that allows us to move forward and grow.”

To have an effective class meeting place, construction was completed at an on-campus laboratory previously utilized for auto mechanic and HVAC courses. The roofed building was enclosed and two distinct training areas were set off, which added to the available learning space of the campus. IP will provide all necessary training equipment to the college for the construction trade classes.

Heard said that the relationship between Zachry Holdings and the college allows for a positive future for LTC and the community, especially during the current economic downturn.

“The determination and willingness of Zachry Holdings, Inc.’s people made this happen,” Heard said. “This is unbelievable for a company to be willing to pump up the economy and training in such a small town and a small college such as ours.”

For updates on college course offerings or for additional information about the LTC Mansfield Campus, please visit their Web site, http://www.region7.ltc.edu/.

Zachry Holdings, Inc. is engaged in the planning, building and renewing of the world’s most critical infrastructures including emerging energy, power, cement, refining and nuclear facilities. As one of the largest direct-hire, merit-shop constructors in the United States, Zachry Holdings, Inc. is a collaborative, practical and visionary force, providing engineering, construction and maintenance services to top industrial customers. The San Antonio-based organization remains a family-owned, privately held company. Founded in 1924, Zachry Holdings, Inc.’s long list of experience has led to more than 6,000 completed projects in the United States and abroad. Visit www.zhi.com for more information.