23/03/2023
The Missing Spark: Bringing Welding and Fabrication Education to Life in Our High Schools
Editorial By Kevin Nelson.Editor-at-Large, International Off-Road Fabrication Society Magazine.
I spend my days as an offroading enthusiest , a welder/fabricator and for the past six years , a welding educator. Through that oppertunity to teach ,I've been fortunate enough to witness the transformative power of hands-on learning in the lives of my students. When they first walk into the shop, many of them are unsure of their path. But by the end of the course, they're equipped with college-level credits, a newfound passion, and the skills necessary to succeed in the world of welding and fabrication. Now more than ever, it's crucial for high schools across the country to embrace welding and fabrication education, not just as a footnote, but as a vital component of their curriculums.
The beauty of welding and fabrication lies in the boundless opportunities it offers. From constructing off-road vehicles that conquer treacherous terrains to building awe-inspiring sky scrapers, to so many other avenues . These skills open up a world of creative possibilities. But to truly appreciate the magic behind welding and fabrication, one must dive headfirst into the craft and experience it firsthand.
High schools and CTE consortiums that have already integrated welding and fabrication programs, like the one where I teach, are paving the way for the future of this trade. But it's just the beginning. We need to rally for the expansion of these programs to more schools and to ensure that they provide comprehensive, hands-on experience that prepares students for the workforce or further education.
Welding and fabrication are about more than just joining metals. They're about problem-solving, precision, and teamwork. We need to spark students' interest in welding with engaging projects that push them to think critically, challenge their creativity, and foster a sense of pride in their accomplishments. As educators, our role is to inspire students, to show them that they're capable of more than they ever imagined, and to help them discover their own paths in the welding and fabrication world.
In addition to the technical skills, we must also emphasize the connection between welding and fabrication with off-roading, a sport that's gaining popularity year after year. By drawing attention to the thrilling world of off-road vehicle design and building, we can pique students' interest in welding and encourage them to join this growing community.
To make this vision a reality, it's crucial that we all work together. Teachers, administrators, and the off-road fabrication community must join forces to advocate for more comprehensive welding and fabrication programs in high schools. By doing so, we can ensure that the torch of welding and fabrication skills is passed on to future generations, paving the way for even greater achievements in the field and the continued growth of off-roading as a sport.
Let's fuel the fire of passion for welding and fabrication in our young minds, and together, we can shape a future filled with skilled, innovative, and driven individuals who will carry the legacy of this trade and the off-roading community to new heights.
