Praxair announced a new Skills Pipeline program, a multifaceted approach to help address the growing need for skilled workers in today’s global economy. The first phase of the program will provide more than $300,000 to train 100 new welders in an accelerated one-year curriculum in Louisiana. The program, which will be offered through three area community colleges, is Praxair’s most recent commitment to advancing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education. Scheduled to begin in September, the program also provides funding for new instructorships and professional development opportunities for existing welders.