Welding - A Great Opportunity from a Student's Perspective
by Adam I. - first year student
Logan A., Kevin H., Tom M., Drue M. and I built a new rack to
hold the metal not being used. It was made from the old rack that
was already there. We cut them apart with the torch. Logan and
Kevin took some "I" beams and set the rack on them so it tilted
back with a beam going from the "I" beam to the top of the rack for
support. After they were put together, I helped to level them by
cutting eight pieces 6" x 3" x 3/4." Then I welded them to
the "I" beams underneath and welded the rack to the base.
The rack that was there wasn't too stable because it was straight
up and down, which made it not as safe. We thought leaning it back
would give it more support. It would also make it safer.
I am in Welding because of the opportunities. Welding is a great
opportunity for anyone. There are not many great welders. IVVC is
helping students start to become one. My dad said, "Even if you
don't do Welding as a career, it would still help in many jobs you
might do."
In this class, I have learned a lot. I've only welded once at my
house before this class. I have never cut with the torch before. I
learned what different rods do and how HOT to set the rods. I have
also learned how to start the torch, and how to use it properly.
There are many ways to weld, like MIG, TIG and Stick. I have done
Stick and MIG, but we haven't done TIG in this class yet. There are
many positions to weld in - flat, horizontal, vertical and
overhead. I have welded in every position.
