SWeETy Camp Celebrates 20 Years of Inspiring Future Skilled Trades Professionals

The 20th annual Summer Welding & Electrical Technology (SWeETy) Camp gave 30 female students entering grades 9-12 the opportunity to explore careers in welding, electrical technology and advanced manufacturing through four days of hands-on learning at Calhoun Community College.

Throughout the week, students received instructor-led safety training before gaining experience with welding techniques, electrical technology and computer-aided design while completing hands-on projects. Campers also connected with local businesswomen working in manufacturing and skilled trades during sponsored lunches, giving them the opportunity to learn firsthand about career opportunities available in North Alabama.

Since its inception, approximately 500 students have participated in SWeETy Camp, which was created to encourage young women to explore careers in high-demand, high-wage skilled trades. The program helps build the future workforce by exposing students to rewarding career paths while giving them the confidence to develop new skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.

The Chamber was proud to partner with Calhoun Community College to host this year's camp and invest in the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Thank you to our Educational Camps presenting sponsor Indorama Ventures, SWeETy Camp platinum sponsor River City Electric and gold sponsor Nucor Steel Decatur.