Training in mechanical skills equips individuals with expertise that is valuable across industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and maintenance. These skills open doors to employment opportunities even within local industries which are timely and relevant for the United Nations’ 8th Sustainable Development Goal on Decent Work and Economic Growth. Recognizing this potential, the College of Engineering and Industrial Technology (CEIT) at Guimaras State University (GSU), in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Buenavista, conducted a Mechanical Skills Training on August 23, 2023. Held at the BIT Mechanical Laboratory Room, the training targeted unemployed residents of Buenavista, aiming to equip them with practical skills for gainful employment.

The focus of the training was on Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), a skill in high demand in various mechanical roles. Instructor Marin Dexter Ejar, a faculty member of CEIT and the event’s resource person, delivered comprehensive lectures covering topics such as Welding Basics, Safety Precautions, Equipment and Tool Handling, Electrode Classification and Selection, Welding Techniques, Joint Preparation, and Quality Control and Inspection.

Participants then engaged in hands-on workshops, allowing them to apply the theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Through these sessions, trainees showed remarkable improvement in precision measurement, tool handling, and equipment operation. These practical exercises also served as assessments, enabling trainers to evaluate the participants’ proficiency and readiness for work in mechanical fields.

The event concluded with participants sharing their experiences and feedback, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Margie Y. De La Cruz, Director of GSU Community Extension Services. This training not only enhanced participants’ technical skills but also contributed to empowering the Buenavistahanon community through education and capacity-building initiatives.