We are proud to announce this year’s Scholarship recipient, Miranda Crist. Her submission exemplifies the passion for welding that Charlie had during his education and career. Wishing her the best of luck in her life long pursuit of a welding career.

When you look into the future, what do you see? Elementary kids would shout firefighter, dancer, doctor, policeman. I would say tradeswomen. Growing up with my father I learned quickly about the trades, he’s an HVAC supervisor/technician. At the age of 10 I would beg to join him on side jobs and classes. When high school came around, I went into vocational school and found welding. Little did I know my dad was a welder in the NAVY, he was so proud of my aspirations at such a young age. I felt closer to my dad pursuing welding, and I felt strong and capable under the hood. Welding is my passion and my future career.

Welding has impacted my life tremendously, throughout high school and out of school. I planned to graduate high school a year early and make my way to Hobart. But after talking to the NAVY, I wanted to join in for nuclear welding, following my dad’s footsteps. Not all dreams end happily, unfortunately an injury disqualified me from the navy and by coincidence I already canceled my Hobart date. I was left scared and without answers, I was only 17 and worked as a lifeguard for the summer. Thankfully my previous teacher for welding took us on AWS field trips to businesses, that’s where I met my first welding employer.

After being hired at my first welding company, knowledge was being presented almost too fast to maintain. I learned everything from welding to operating machinery, and many things in between. Finally working in the field broadened my view and dedication to my future. 3 months into my career at the company I passed my first certification in 5 days. After, I started to show interest in pipe fitting, which then lead to interest in supervising. I know throughout my career there are going to be mountains to climb to reach my goals. You must always start from the bottom and work your way up, and never forget where you came from. In the end I hope to one day be an owner of a company that reaches out with open arms to young aspiring trades men and women.

Every career has its set of required skills and preferences, but figuring out the key factors is a whole different challenge.  Welding in particular demands labor, patience, accountability, and work ethic. Most people don’t consider attention to detail, being open minded, adaptability, and dedication to always improving. You must always be able to be the student and remember even when passing your tests, that is not the highest level you can strive to be. Certain welders search for the prettiest welds without considering the strength and integrity of the completed product. These skills are truly important to a welder because they allow continuous progress and value to said personnel.

Given these points above, Welding has carried me through high school and life as a career. I can’t wait to live my future welding and look back one day.