“I took a tour of Lively Technical Institute in Tallahassee when I was a freshman in high school and got excited about a welding education. For my senior year in high school I was in the High School Dual Enrollment program at Santa Fe College and I was fortunate to get into the welding program in my final semester. It was a great fit from the start.
Despite my high college qualifications in testing and grades, I chose a two-year certification program so I could perfect a trade and work in my specific field when joining the workforce. Welding has challenged me physically and mentally, and I am excited about getting my professional career started.
What attracts me to welding is the combination of science, art and precision. My plan is to join the United Association of Pipefitters as a union. I believe it is the best way for me to continue my education and professional training on the job. The apprenticeship program will eventually lead to a journeyman position which will offer me a stable and professional career now and in the future.
I plan to weld with the professionalism and daily work ethic emphasized throughout my Santa Fe College experience. Quality skilled welders are needed to maintain and expand infrastructure, space exploration, manufacturing and more. Providing quality work is my way of giving back to my community.
I am thankful for the opportunities provided through scholarships from The American Welding Society (AWS), the SF Foundation Boone/Bussard Welding Scholarship and Florida Bright Futures. They provided the financial support I needed to complete my program. My professor, Ryan Mackey, was an integral part of my inspiration and success in the welding program. He helped me reach my goals and continues to advise me at the professional level. I also want to thank my family for their continuous support.”
– August Herrmann, C.T.C., Advanced Welding Technology