Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Weld our Soul Scholarship. Growing up in a rural area of Upstate New York, I have always been drawn to working with my hands. I liked understanding how things fit together, how machines worked, and how something broken could be made useful again. My paternal grandfather, uncles, and cousins were all members of the Local 7 Steamfitters Union, and as I got older, I learned from each of them. Welding became an amazing opportunity to make something that will last beyond my years. I enjoy talking with my grandfather about jobs he worked on decades ago that are still in use today. Knowing that a welder’s work can stand the test of time inspires me. I recently graduated from the NY Capital Region Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, as well as from Duanesburg High School. I was inducted into the National Trade Honor Society and earned a Regents Honors Diploma. This dual enrollment reflects my commitment to both academic excellence and hands-on skill development. I take pride in maintaining strong performance across both classroom and shop environments. The CTE program was a transformative experience. It taught me discipline, attention to detail, and the value of showing up every day ready to learn and improve. My favorite technique is STICK welding, and my goal is to become a combo welder in an industrial setting. I’ve also enjoyed applying my welding education at home, where I repaired a ladder and built a table for my family. Seeing something I made being used every day reminds me why skilled work matters. During the CTE graduation ceremony, our commencement speaker said, “CTE and BOCES programs are no longer for the students who don’t fit into the traditional classroom, it a conscious choice to shape a young person’s future.” I was proud to hear that because choosing welding was exactly that for me: a deliberate decision to build a future rooted in skill, pride, and purpose. I hope one day I can return to speak to future welders about my own experiences. I am continuing my education at the Missouri Welding Institute (MWI). MWI offers advanced training and industry connections that will support my welding career. Attending this program will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus fully on my training and take advantage of every opportunity. I’m proud of the path I’m on, and I’m excited for the future I’m building.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Bick Vocational / Trade School Scholarship. Growing up in a rural area of Upstate New York, I have always been drawn to working with my hands. I liked understanding how things fit together, how machines worked, and how something broken could be made useful again. My paternal grandfather, uncles, and cousins were all members of the Local 7 Steamfitters Union, and as I got older, I learned from each of them. Welding became an amazing opportunity to make something that will last beyond my years. I enjoy talking with my grandfather about jobs he worked on decades ago that are still in use today. Knowing that a welder’s work can stand the test of time inspires me. I recently graduated from the NY Capital Region Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, as well as from Duanesburg High School. I was inducted into the National Trade Honor Society and earned a Regents Honors Diploma. This dual enrollment reflects my commitment to both academic excellence and hands-on skill development. I take pride in maintaining strong performance across both classroom and shop environments. The CTE program was a transformative experience. It taught me discipline, attention to detail, and the value of showing up every day ready to learn and improve. My favorite technique is STICK welding, and my goal is to become a combo welder in an industrial setting. I’ve also enjoyed applying my welding education at home, where I repaired a ladder and built a table for my family. Seeing something I made being used every day reminds me why skilled work matters. During the CTE graduation ceremony, our commencement speaker said, “CTE and BOCES programs are no longer for the students who don’t fit into the traditional classroom, it a conscious choice to shape a young person’s future.” I was proud to hear that because choosing welding was exactly that for me: a deliberate decision to build a future rooted in skill, pride, and purpose. I hope one day I can return to speak to future welders about my own experiences. I am continuing my education at the Missouri Welding Institute (MWI). MWI offers advanced training and industry connections that will support my welding career. Attending this program will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge, but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus fully on my training and take advantage of every opportunity. I’m proud of the path I’m on and am excited for the future I’m building. Thank you for your consideration.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Koehler Family Trades and Engineering Scholarship. I am currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, while attending Duanesburg High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a NYS Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. This dual enrollment reflects my commitment to academic excellence and hands-on skill development. My Grandfather (PaPa), 3 Uncles and 1 Cousin have all led successful careers in welding. My PaPa was a member of the UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years. He has inspired my interest in welding and a deep respect for trades that require both technical precision and mental grit. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, taking on roles in warehouses, landscaping, retail, and ski instruction. Each job taught me the value of showing up, working hard, and learning by doing. Welding offers that same satisfaction, but with the added reward of creating something that will last beyond my lifetime. I have also enjoyed applying my welding education at home where I have repaired a ladder and built a table for my family's use - it is great to be able to see my effort being used. My decision to pursue welding is rooted in a desire for economic stability, job security, and the opportunity to travel and work in dynamic industrial environments. It’s a career that aligns with my strengths and values: independence, resilience, and pride in craftsmanship. I believe welding plays a vital role as the industrial backbone of our country’s infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation, and energy. From bridges and buildings to pipelines and power plants, welders make it possible for communities to grow and industries to thrive both now and in the future. This scholarship would support me in continuing my education at one of the top welding programs in the country: Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. Attending one of these schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge — but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I love, and I’m excited for the future.

My name is Sean Rosenzweig, and I’m currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY while attending Duanesburg High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. Welding is the trade I’m pursuing, and it’s more than "just" a future job — it’s a legacy I’m proud to carry forward. My inspiration comes from my grandfather, who was a member of UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years. Three of my uncles and a cousin have also built successful careers in welding. Their stories, work ethic, and pride in their craft sparked my interest early on. Once I stepped into the shop myself, I knew I’d found my path. I’m especially drawn to STICK welding. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, always seeking out opportunities to earn, learn, and grow. Whether it was in a warehouse, on a landscaping crew, in retail, or teaching skiing, I’ve built a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for hands-on labor. These experiences have shaped my character and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in industrial welding—one that offers economic stability, job security, and the chance to travel and work in dynamic environments. My goal is to become a combo welder in an industrial setting and eventually take on leadership roles in the field. I want to be known not just for my skill, but for my integrity, work ethic, and impact on the industry. Skilled trades like welding are the backbone of our country’s infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation, and energy. One of the biggest obstacles I’ve faced was recovering from a serious concussion. It forced me to slow down and focus on healing, which was difficult for someone used to pushing forward. I overcame it by taking care of my body, following my doctor’s instructions, and staying mentally focused on my goals. That experience taught me patience, discipline, and the importance of long-term thinking. This scholarship would help me continue my education at one of the top welding institutes in the country—Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. These programs offer advanced training and strong industry connections, but living away from home adds financial pressure. With your support, I’ll be able to focus fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities the programs offer. Thank you for considering my application. I’m proud of the journey I’m on, and excited for the future I’m building.

My name is Sean Rosenzweig, and I’m currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY while attending Duanesburg High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. Outside of school I enjoy golf, skiing, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, always seeking out opportunities to earn, learn, and grow. Whether it was in a warehouse, on a landscaping crew, in retail, or teaching skiing, I’ve built a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for hands-on labor. These experiences have shaped my character and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in industrial welding—one that offers economic stability, job security, and the chance to travel and work in dynamic environments. Welding is the trade I’m pursuing, a career that runs deep in my family. My grandfather (PaPa) was a proud member of UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years, and three of my uncles and a cousin have also built successful careers in welding. Their example inspired me to explore the trade, and once I stepped into the shop, I knew I’d found my path. I’m especially drawn to STICK welding. To master my trade, I plan to continue my education at one of the top welding institutes in the country—Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. These programs offer advanced training and strong industry connections that will prepare me for a career in industrial welding. I’m committed to working hard, staying focused, and constantly improving my skills so I can become a combo welder and eventually take on leadership roles in the field. Giving back to my community is also part of my long-term vision. I want to use my skills to support local infrastructure projects, help neighbors with repairs, and encourage younger students to explore welding careers with confidence. I believe that skilled trades are the foundation of strong communities and I am committed to making a positive impact throughout my life and career. This scholarship would help me continue my education, attending one of the above schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge—but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I am passionate about, and I’m excited for the future I’m building.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for Uniball's Skilled Trades Scholarship. Your Dad sounds like a wonderful person and I would be honored to receive a scholarship in his memory to support my welding education. I am pursuing a career in welding through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program in Schoharie, NY. Welding is more than a skill to me—it’s a craft that demands clean technique and unwavering attention while yields a sense of pride in my abilities. I was inspired by my grandfather, who was a member of UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years, as well as by three uncles and a cousin who’ve built successful careers in the trade. Their stories sparked my interest, but it was stepping into the shop I knew I wanted to pursue welding as a life-long career. I enjoy working with my hands, solving problems, and creating something that lasts. Welding offers a path to economic stability and job security. After completing high school and the CTE program, I plan to continue my welding education at one of the following — Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. These schools offer advanced training and strong industry connections that will help me become a combo welder in an industrial setting. My long-term goal is to work in environments that challenge me and eventually take on leadership roles where I can mentor others. I want to be known not just for my skill, but for my work ethic and impact on the field. One of the most challenging experiences I’ve faced was recovering from a serious concussion. It affected my physical health, ability to focus, and ability to participate in the things I love. At first, it was frustrating to slow down, especially since I’m used to pushing myself in school, work, and sports. But I knew that healing properly was essential for my long-term well-being. I worked through it by committing fully to my recovery—taking care of my body, following my doctor’s instructions, and being patient with the process. I had to step back from certain activities and prioritize rest, nutrition, and gradual re-engagement. It taught me discipline in a new way: not just pushing but recognizing when to pause and rebuild. It was a humbling experience that strengthened my resilience and reminded me that setbacks can be temporary if you approach them with care and determination. I appreciate your consideration and wish you all the best.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship. I am currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, while attending Duanesburg High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. This dual enrollment reflects commitment to academic excellence and hands-on skill development. My Grandfather (PaPa), 3 Uncles and 1 Cousin have all led successful careers in welding. My PaPa was a member of the UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years. He has inspired my interest in welding and a deep respect for trades that require both technical precision and mental grit. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, taking on roles in warehouses, landscaping, retail, and ski instruction. Each job taught me the value of showing up, working hard, and learning by doing. I have also enjoyed applying my welding education at home where I have repaired a ladder and built a table for my family's use - it is great to be able to see my effort being used. Outside of welding, I’ve played Varsity Golf since 7th grade, a sport that’s taught me patience, focus, and the importance of steady improvement. I enjoy playing with my Dad, who’s been a consistent partner and mentor on the course. Every Mother’s Day, I also join my Mom for her annual golf outing, which is one of her favorite traditions. My decision to pursue welding is rooted in a desire for economic stability, job security, and the opportunity to travel and work in dynamic industrial environments. I believe welding plays a vital role as the industrial backbone of our country’s infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation, and energy. It’s a career that aligns with my strengths and values: independence, resilience, and pride in craftsmanship. This scholarship would support me in continuing my education at one of the top welding programs in the country: Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. Attending one of these schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge—but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I love, and I’m excited for the future.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Weld our Soul Scholarship in memory of Kevin. I am currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, while attending Duanesburg High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. This dual enrollment reflects commitment to academic excellence and hands-on skill development. My Grandfather (PaPa), 3 Uncles and 1 Cousin have all led successful careers in welding. My PaPa was a member of the UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years. He has inspired my interest in welding and a deep respect for trades that require both technical precision and mental grit. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, taking on roles in warehouses, landscaping, retail, and ski instruction. Each job taught me the value of showing up, working hard, and learning by doing. Welding offers that same satisfaction, but with the added reward of creating something that will last beyond my lifetime. I have also enjoyed applying my welding education at home where I have repaired a ladder and built a table for my family's use - it is great to be able to see my effort being used. In the shop, I’ve found a rhythm that feels right for me — gearing up, prepping materials, laying down a clean bead, and constantly improving. I’m especially drawn to STICK welding. My decision to pursue welding is rooted in a desire for economic stability, job security, and the opportunity to travel and work in dynamic industrial environments. It’s a career that aligns with my strengths and values: independence, resilience, and pride in craftsmanship. I believe welding plays a vital role in today’s society. It is the industrial backbone of our country's infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation, and energy. As technology advances, skilled welders are needed more than ever to ensure safety, durability, and innovation in construction and repair. Welding isn’t just a job—it’s a vital contribution to progress. This scholarship would help me continue my education at one of the top welding institutes in the country: Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. Each of these programs offers advanced training and industry connections that I believe are essential for launching a successful welding career. Attending one of these schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge—but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I love, and I’m excited for the future.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Lynn Welding Next Generation in Welding Scholarship. I am currently enrolled in the Capital Region BOCES, Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, while attending Duanesburg JR/SR High School. I’m on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma and currently hold a GPA of 3.6. This dual enrollment reflects commitment to academic excellence and hands-on skill development. My Grandfather (PaPa), 3 Uncles and 1 Cousin have all led successful careers in welding. My PaPa was a member of the UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters for over 40 years. He has inspired my interest in welding and a deep respect for trades that require both technical precision and mental grit. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, taking on roles in warehouses, landscaping, retail, and ski instruction. Each job taught me the value of showing up, working hard, and learning by doing. Welding offers that same satisfaction, but with the added reward of creating something that will last beyond my lifetime. In the shop, I’ve found a rhythm that feels right for me — gearing up, prepping materials, stacking dimes, and constantly improving. I’m especially drawn to stick welding. My decision to pursue welding is rooted in a desire for economic stability, job security, and the opportunity to travel and work in dynamic industrial environments. It’s a career that aligns with my strengths and values: independence, resilience, and pride in craftsmanship. I believe welding plays a vital role in today’s society. It is the industrial backbone of our country's infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation, and energy. As technology advances, skilled welders are needed more than ever to ensure safety, durability, and innovation in construction and repair. This scholarship would help me continue my education at one of the top welding institutes in the country: Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. Each of these programs offers advanced training and industry connections that I believe are essential for launching a successful welding career. Attending one of these schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge—but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I love, and I’m excited about for the future.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the John Dowling Odom Welding Scholarship. I am currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) welding program in Schoharie, NY, while attending Duanesburg High School, where I am on track to graduate in June 2026 with a Regents Honors Diploma. This dual enrollment reflects my commitment to both academic excellence and hands-on skill development. My current GPA is 3.6, and I take pride in maintaining strong performance across both classroom and shop environments. For me, welding is more than a trade—it’s a craft that demands precision, resilience, and pride. It’s a way to build something lasting, contribute to real-world projects, and create a life rooted in hard work and purpose. My favorite technique is STICK welding, and my goal is to become a combo welder in an industrial setting. I have also enjoyed applying my welding education at home where I have repaired a ladder and built a table for my family's use - it is great to be able to see my effort being used. The CTE program has been a transformative experience. It’s taught me discipline, attention to detail, and the value of showing up every day ready to learn and improve. I’ve worked since I was 13 years old, always seeking out opportunities to earn, learn, and grow. Whether it was in a warehouse, on a landscaping crew, in retail, or teaching skiing, I’ve built a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for hands-on labor. These experiences have shaped my character and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in industrial welding—one that offers economic stability, job security, and the chance to travel and work in dynamic environments. This scholarship would support me in continuing my education at one of the top welding institutes in the country: Kentucky Welding Institute, Western Welding Academy, or Missouri Welding Institute. Each of these programs offers advanced training and industry connections that I believe are essential for launching a successful welding career. Attending one of these schools will require me to live away from home, which adds to the financial challenge—but I’m committed to making it work. With your support, I’ll be able to focus more fully on my training and take full advantage of the opportunities these programs provide. Thank you again for considering my application. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue a career that I am passionate about, and I’m excited for the future I’m building.