Tye Alexander Rich is the recipient of the Robert Bercaw Scholarship granted by Hobart Institute of Welding Technology.  Tye, of Coal City, Indiana, is a graduate of Owen Valley High School (OVHS) and Area 30 Career Center where he has been a leader in Industrial Technology Education and other programs. 

“Tye has made every effort to make things to the best of his ability and is always striving to make each project or weld better than the previous,” says his instructor, Gregg Dillion.  “Tye has excellent attendance; he is never tardy and is punctual with all book and welding assignments.”

One of the graduation requirements at OVHS is the Patriot Expo. 

As a junior, “the passion and dedication Tye showed for his topic impressed me,” says Mrs. Renny Mauder, Expo Coordinator.  “During Tye’s senior year, his ability to self-monitor and stay focused on a project impressed me as his work had done last year.  In both classes, Tye led by example.  While others were procrastinating and making excuses why their work wasn’t done, Tye simply did the work at an exceptional level.  He is fantastic about making deadlines, which should serve him well in all areas of life.”

“While his Patriot Expo topic did not deal with his chosen career, the work ethic that he has demonstrated will carry him through his vocational training and career,” Mrs. Mauder continues.  “He was able to complete the majority of his work during the summer months so he didn’t have to divide his time between his other classes, his participation in football, and his job.  His foresight helped him to avoid the conflicts that most high school students encounter.  This level of maturity is what has impressed me the most.”

“Arc welding was the first type of welding that I came into contact with when I was in Iowa living with my brother,” says Tye.  “We worked on equipment together and I learned the method and found that I really felt like I had accomplished something when I was able to fix various items.” 

“I began researching schools… and found that Hobart Institute of Welding Technology is one of the top schools in the nation.  I have the goal to attend Hobart and obtain certification in a variety of welding techniques and methods,” Tye continues.  “I want to join a construction crew and build buildings and sky scrapers.  Ultimately, my career goal is to become a professional welder and own my own company.” 

Tye is enrolled in the nine-month Combination Structural and Pipe Welding Program at Hobart Institute.  

“I have truly found the one thing I think will make me enjoy going to work every day!” Tye comments.

A four-year member in FFA, Tye was part of the soil judging program.  He was also a defensive tackle on the football team, participated in 4-H, was a member of the youth group at his church while working at the local McDonald’s.   Tye is the son of Rita Hall.