Almost 500,000 people in the U.S. have a welding career, ranging from different subcategories, such as underwater welding.
Welders are the backbone of today’s blue-collar society. Every building in this country requires a welder. The New York skyline relies on welders to stand tall. The bridges that connect states and people rely on welders.
Lakeland High School stands out for its unique approach to welding education. LHS’ program equips students with the necessary skills for a high-income, lifelong career and fosters a detail-oriented mindset.
By blending hands-on construction with in-classroom learning, LHS provides a comprehensive learning experience that sets our students up for success in the welding industry.
The LHS welding team has achieved remarkable success, demonstrating their precise skills and leadership abilities. They made it to the state championship and emerged as the winners. Their achievements have garnered attention and inspired many other students and schools.
Trade careers may seem overlooked in academic scenery. Still, LHS supports the dreams of many aspiring welders by giving them opportunities to try new things, whether or not the student attains any previous knowledge of welding.
Upon graduating from LHS, many members of our welding team are considering various career paths. Some plan to continue their education through apprenticeships, while others are eager to jump right into the workforce and start their welding careers. This diversity of choices reflects the wide range of opportunities available in the welding industry.
“I plan on going to work at any opportunity I get,” Lucas Cole said.
He plans on going into the welding field immediately after graduation. Bailey Kennedy also plans on entering the welding field as a secondary career after High School.
Jobs such as maintenance, fabrication and boilermaker welders are hugely available and vital for society to function correctly. Maintaining the structural integrity of some of the world’s most famous buildings, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building, requires welders to keep the metal structures.
At the competition, team members’ skills are put to the test. Everyone hoping to advance to the next level at the state requires physical stamina and patience.
“Lots of the teams know how to weld, but the way our team worked together and stayed in their own lane was what put us over the top,” Corey Pettit said.
This year’s competition required welders to weld a motorcycle carrier that goes in the hitch of a truck. The welders had five and a half hours to complete the project as close to the requirements as possible.
“Lucas Cole, Bailey Kennedy, and Frank Ferriola did great at the competition,” Pettit said. “I am very proud of them.”
The Lakeland welding team works on more projects as they prepare for the workforce and will be on the team next year.
