When I was about 12 years old I started working with my father. My father's job was to clean cattle trailers and move them in and out of the designated cleaning area. When my father wasn't cleaning cattle trailers, he was helping around the farm. When I started working with him I just helped around. I would watch my dad and his boss weld trailers back together, use a cutting torch to cut metal, and much more. I was instantly intrigued. Every chance I got I was asked questions to learn more. It didn't matter if it was rain or shine, I wanted to go watch my dad weld. Soon enough, I got the opportunity to show what I learned. I went out to the shop with my dad's boss and he got everything set up for me to weld a trailer. I was so excited and nervous at the same time. I didn't want to ruin my chances of helping out with welding. After that first arc sparked, I knew I was going to be just fine. I had spent all this time watching my dad and his boss, and I knew exactly what to do. I was a little messy, but that is just how it is on your first time for anything. When I had finished, it turns out I did a pretty decent job. Just last year our school had gotten a welding program and I instantly signed up. I was so happy that our school finally got a welding program so I can learn more about the process that intrigued me the most. I have been in the welding program for 2 years of my high school career. This welding program has taught me so much. Welding is a very important job. Without welders, there wouldn't be homes, schools, buildings, and so much more. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for welders and cutters will increase by 8% by the year 2030. I want to be the reason we aren't shorthanded on welders. People have no idea what kind of workers welders are. Welders are dedicated, hardworking, and tough people. Without welders, today's society would fall into shambles. I know this scholarship is preferred for people from the New England area, but I would be honored to receive this scholarship as a young welder from a small town in Texas. I want to be a part of the next welders of America.