High school students in Chatham-Kent are getting a head start on careers in the welding industry.
The welding program at Chatham-Kent Secondary School (CKSS) is teaching students the necessary skills to become certified welders. The school is now officially a Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) certified training facility.
The program started in September and recently tested its first group of seven students for CWB certification.
"It was a huge success," said Kevin Hoskins, who teaches welding at CKSS. "All but one of the students passed the test for certification."
Hoskins said as soon as the students acquire their certification ticket, they can start working in the trade. He said the program also gives students an advantage if they decide to do an apprenticeship after graduating from high school.
"The students are qualified enough to continue their training," said Hoskins. "We give them a lot of training but they do still have a lot to learn. At least, they get a bunch of procedures down for the working world."
The program teaches students several types of welding including mig welding, tig welding, and stick welding. Hoskins said students are also taught AutoCAD, which is a computer-aided design and drafting software application.
"I love this program," said Grade 12 student Dylan Purdy. "I've got these fellas [teachers] who help me through every step of the process. Every mistake I make, they help me correct it."
When asked about his career, Purdy said he always knew it was going to be in the trades industry. He said a career in welding became more clear once he learned how to weld.
"I always thought about being a tool and die maker but then Mr. Hoskins showed me welding," said Purdy. "I love that stuff."
Hoskins said the best part about teaching the students welding is seeing them grow to be successful.
"The students don't give up, they just keep working and working," said Hoskins.
