The Welding Technology program is available to students in grades 10, 11, and 12. The Weld Shop is located in the Twin Lakes Career and Technical Center and is part of TLHS’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) program.
Ms. Kim Rosenbaum has been the Welding instructor for the past 10 years. She had many years of practical experience working as a professional welder in a machine shop before beginning her teaching career. Rosenbaum holds a degree in welding technology, has earned certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) and has completed Leadership Development Programs at Purdue University.
Students enrolled in the welding program gain an understanding of the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), learn different welding processes such as MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), and Stick (Shielded Metal Arc Welding). They also learn how to prepare metals for welding, including cutting, cleaning, and fitting. Proper care, maintenance, and troubleshooting of welding machines and tools is also an important part of the curriculum.
“Students are able to apply learned techniques to create and complete various metalworking projects, building real-world skills,” shared Rosenbaum, “They also gain an understanding of weld specifications and weld symbols.”
Welding students are able to earn AWS certifications in various positions. These certifications can take them on a career path in Industrial Welding, Manufacturing, Construction, and working as professional welders on large-scale projects like pipelines.
Senior Shelby Klopfenstein is in her third year of the welding program. “I love welding and I’m happy I’ve the opportunity to expand my knowledge. I have earned my AWS certification and plan to use my welding skills on our family farm after graduation.”