Lynn Welding Next Generation in Welding Scholarship

I didn’t grow up around welding, but once I was introduced to it, I knew it was the path I wanted to follow. There’s something powerful about being able to shape metal with precision — to create something strong, lasting, and essential. I’m currently studying welding at Lincoln Tech in East Windsor, where I’m learning the fundamentals of the trade alongside students pursuing a variety of technical careers. While the school doesn’t specialize in welding alone, I’ve found my focus and passion within the program. What guided me toward welding was a mix of curiosity and purpose. I’ve always been drawn to hands-on work — the kind of work where you can see the results of your effort and know it serves a real function. Welding stood out to me because it’s everywhere: in buildings, bridges, vehicles, and even spacecraft. It’s a skill that supports industries we rely on every day, and it’s becoming more important as experienced welders retire and demand continues to grow. As I’ve progressed through my training, I’ve developed a deep respect for the precision and discipline welding requires. I’m especially interested in TIG welding and inspection techniques, which are critical in high-performance environments like aerospace and defense. I’ve spent extra time learning how to interpret welding symbols, use inspection tools, and understand the standards that govern quality work. My goal is to become a certified welder who can contribute to projects where accuracy and reliability are non-negotiable. I believe welding plays a vital role in today’s society because it’s the backbone of so many essential systems. Whether it’s repairing aging infrastructure, building new transportation networks, or supporting advanced manufacturing, welders are needed to make it happen. Skilled trades like welding don’t just build things — they keep them running, safe, and strong. That’s why I take this career seriously and why I’m committed to mastering it. I’m applying for this scholarship because it would help me continue my education without financial setbacks. Training in welding requires not just time and effort, but also access to tools, materials, and certification opportunities. If selected, this scholarship would allow me to stay focused on my goals, invest in the equipment I need, and pursue advanced training that prepares me for high-precision work. It would also give me the confidence to keep pushing forward, knowing that others believe in the value of what I’m working toward. Welding isn’t just a job to me — it’s a way to contribute to something bigger. Whether I end up working on aircraft, infrastructure, or something entirely new, I want my welds to reflect the care and commitment I bring to the trade. This scholarship would be a meaningful step in that journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply.

My interest started a few years ago during a visit with my Grandfather David or “Pa” as he is lovingly referred to by the family. He showed me how he uses welding on his farm to maintain his farm and equipment in rural Holton, KS. He let me try my hand at a simple weld and it piqued my interest immediately. The bright lights, sparks, crackles and pops, intense heat, protective gear, and distinctive smell were very intriguing and new! Growing up in the city, this was not something that I was previously exposed to at any point. I started to research welding and the opportunities available in many industries. I found out shortly after that my high school offered a 2-year program at the local Technical Center. I also saw it as an opportunity to use my skills to travel around the country, and perhaps the world. Since 80% of manufactured goods use welding and almost every trade needs a welder, I plan to become a certified welder where many job opportunities will be abundant in the upcoming years. I knew I wanted to be part of a high-demand hands-on career where I can join the workforce faster by attending my local community college trade school program. I understand that as metropolitan areas grow and aging infrastructure needs repairing and replacing across the country, I will be able to contribute my skills to a critical need. According to the American Welding Society (AWS), new skilled welders will be needed to replace retirees and meet rising demand from natural gas drillers, steel producers, automakers, and more. I want to fill that growing need and be part of the solution. I am currently a high school senior in my 2nd year of the Welding Technology Program through Olathe Advanced Technical Center. I will graduate with an AWS SENSE Entry Level Welder I Certificate. I have toured a local welding and fabrication company to gain knowledge of one type of work environment. I understand that this is a very labor-intensive career that demands attention to detail. After graduation, I plan to attend Johnson County Community College and pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Metal Fabrication and Welding. By starting my career sooner than others attending a traditional 4-year college program, I hope to secure stable work experience and grow my future career skills and opportunities faster. Through my high school welding program, I discovered that I prefer hands-on work more than anything else and I can’t wait to see where this industry takes me. I appreciate your consideration and am very excited to join an exciting career path within an important building and manufacturing industry.