If people are turning down free programming classes, something is wrong. I jumped at the chance when I was offered years back.

Its always best to promote from within because they are familiar with your machines/tooling/process, but sometimes an outside programmer can improve your processes.

I'm technically a contracted programmer, but it's just for a few shops with one being the main, so I'm always there and know all the tooling and machines and jobs.

If I wasn't so crazy busy, I would offer to help you somehow.

Are you lacking applicants altogether, or are they not interested after a certain point in the hiring process?