Center for Welding & Automation Excellence
Forging the future of welding
The Center for Welding and Automation Excellence (CWAE), located on our Brashier Campus, is advancing workforce development across the Upstate by expanding access to industry-aligned welding and automation training. The 44,000-square-foot facility brings together cutting-edge technology, innovative learning spaces and increased training capacity to help address critical workforce needs and prepare students for high-demand careers.
Industry projections show that for every four welders who retire or leave the field, only one new welder enters the workforce. Designed in partnership with industry, CWAE is helping close this gap by increasing the pipeline of skilled professionals throughout South Carolina and the region.
CWAE is equipping students with the technical skills, hands-on experience and industry-relevant training needed to succeed in modern manufacturing environments.
What to Expect from CWAE
- Advanced Technology: Students train using state-of-the art equipment, including AI-powered technologies, robotics and other advanced systems to prepare them for modern industry demands.
- Expanded Learning Spaces: Purpose-built classrooms, labs and collaborative learning spaces where students can develop both technical and problem-solving skills.
- Increased Capacity: With additional welding stations and training opportunities, CWAE enables Greenville Technical College to serve more students and employers to better meet the growing regional workforce demands.
Key Milestones
- Groundbreaking: April 28, 2025
- Topping Out Ceremony: December 11, 2025
- Center Opened: August 20, 2026
