WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE TRADE SCHOOL?
I always knew welding was for me. Before joining Weld South, I attended a different trade school in my hometown. I felt like I learned the basics, but not much about real-life applications. When I went to receive my certification, I passed 2/3rds of the exam and took a pay cut of $20 an hour when I started. I realized how underprepared I was for the test and thought I wasn’t cut out for welding. I tried to work at a clothing line and even some of my own entrepreneurial ventures, but after a year, I wanted to try my hand at welding again.
WHAT’S YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN AT WELD SOUTH?
I did some research this time around and was fortunate enough to have found Weld South because they really changed my life. I got close to the staff there and witnessed how available there are to help if you want to learn. Even after graduation, they are willing to provide guidance on new projects or jobs I'm working on. They teach a broad spectrum of skills from the math behind welding to new techniques and applications, they will give you the environment to work hands-on. It’s also opened a world of network opportunities for me to meet new people and employers. I got my current position with the union through connections at Weld South! The difference between my first trade school and Weld South was night and day, which made all the difference in my career.
HOW DID MIA SHARE HELP THROUGHOUT YOUR EDUCATION?
That was another great benefit of Weld South. It was a small deposit when I started the course and now that I’m working, I get to pay back a monthly payment based on how much I make. Mia Share has been a blessing. It makes it so that almost anybody with a passion to learn, can do it. You guys are doing something amazing for the welding community. I don’t know if I would have finished school with the pressures of payments, so I’m very grateful Mia Share was an opportunity.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS?
I work as a pipe welder and make about $27 an hour. Once I get sworn into the union, I’ll make $32 an hour. So I'll do this for a couple of years and develop my skill set. Five years down the line, I hope to be doing more road work and traveling, that is my goal. I want to own a truck and be self-contracting for jobs all around the country. I have to start making those connections and networking today, but I would love to travel and get paid to do that while welding.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE LOOKING TO ATTEND TRADE SCHOOL?
I'd say go with what your heart says. I knew college wasn't for me. My dad was a machinist who believes heavily in the trades. By high school, I had my eyes on the trades post-graduation. The education is short and the money is good. Especially with how the world is developing right now, we are going to need more electricians, mechanics, welders, plumbers, etc. It may be a rough couple of months while attending your classes, but once you graduate from trade school, you will have all the knowledge you need to get a job and do it well.