“I especially appreciate seeing the look of accomplishment when a shop skill finally clicks. Students often tell me that a weld, cut, or part is “finished and good enough.” But after further discussion, they realize that it can be improved or even remade. ‘If we have time to do a job, we have time to … Continued
“Through the welding program, the students have themselves discovered how to be teachers and to respect people of different educational levels, genders, and racial backgrounds. They have learned to switch roles with authority figures and have increased their level of patience and confidence. They also experience pride in themselves for mastering a specialized skill and … Continued
“I believe that we have responsibilities to younger generations, particularly those who are underserved. It is a happy coincidence that my skill set is currently in demand, and I can’t think of a better way to contribute to the success of future generations than giving young people knowledge and skills that will improve their lives … Continued
“Teaching now for 19 years I find that my passion is even stronger now than when I first began. I related to my students on a personal level, now I still relate but have the experience in life to guide them. I am blessed to have the opportunity to forge the future workforce in welding.” … Continued
“My class is a diverse community that coexists like family. Making a real difference in their lives, makes a real difference in mine.” As a high school junior and senior, Thomas Aubin studied welding and, with the encouragement of his teacher, became the top student in the class. After graduation, Aubin joined the Navy Reserve, … Continued
“Not every student will become a talented welder, but every student who works hard and learns from failure will be an experienced welder. My students are taught every week that hard work always beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” While pursuing a master’s degree in education, Jacob Leair paid his way through school by … Continued
“I love being part of something greater than me; getting to take a student with no knowledge of the trade and mold them into a craftsman; seeing the students get excited about the subject and follow their passion; seeing the students win a contest that they have spent countless hours preparing for; seeing the excitement … Continued
“What I love most about being a skilled trade teacher is seeing the impact each new opportunity I bring to my classroom has on both my students and their families. My goal has always been to provide my students with as many pathways as I can, so they can get to where they want to … Continued
“The pride and satisfaction that comes from a completed masonry project is seldom matched by other trade work. Students know the value of perfection.” —Michael Campanile Michael Campanile and Michael Schweinsberg, who applied for the 2019 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence as a team, both got an early start in the … Continued
“Being a welder doesn’t sound like the most glorious job in the world. However, there are things that being a welder can give you: job security, a sense of accomplishment, and it can make you lots of money, just to name a few.” Brad DeMent is a welding teacher at the Delaware Area Career Center … Continued