“I have had the opportunity to compare training I have received at Hobart Institute to courses I have taken elsewhere and I have been highly impressed with the quality that Hobart offers,” says Stephen Trawick. 

Steve is a civilian welder at Indian Head Naval Base, a U.S. naval research facility in Indian Head, Maryland.  He works in the power plant conducting maintenance and repair welding on high pressure piping.  Recently, Steve returned to Troy to work with Instructor Tom Crawford to receive specialized training and certification on welding procedures developed specifically for him at Hobart Institute.  This certification will benefit his employer by expanding the type of welding he is eligible to do.  From a more personal viewpoint, it will place Steve in a higher wage bracket.

This isn’t Steve’s first contact with HIWT.  In 2003, he completed the Combination Structural and Pipe Welding Program, utilizing the G.I. Bill for advanced training.  Prior to that, he had participated in welding school while serving in the U.S. Army.  After receiving an honorable discharge and completing the 9-month program at Hobart, Steve applied for and landed a civilian welding job with the U.S. Coast Guard through the federal government.  In October 2006, he transferred to the position for the U.S. Navy. 

“Welding for the government is good employment,” Steve comments.  “Benefits, including paid holidays and retirement, are excellent.  Hobart is a recognized name and graduates from HIWT are definitely more highly skilled and have an advantage when seeking jobs.” 

When he is not working on the Navy base, Steve enjoys constructing custom wood and metal furniture. 

Hobart Institute graduates seeking  positions with the government may apply at www.usajobs.com