A STRONG WORK ETHIC IS IMPORTANT

   By Marty Baker
   Hobart Institute of Welding Technology

Reprinted from Summer, 1999

One of the things that frequently is missing in some of today's youth is a strong work ethic. It becomes a unique pleasure to encounter a young person with that quality. It was immediately visible in Tom Bryant.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Tom as he was nearing the end of his nine months of training in the Combination Structural and Pipe Welding Program at the Hobart Institute of Welding Technology. While many of the students come here directly out of high school, Tom chose to work for awhile first. He obtained a welding job at a fabrication shop in Massachusetts.

While working there, often sixty to eighty hours each week, Tom found that his co-workers really didn't have the time to offer on-the-job training and his lack of welding skills left him with the less desirable jobs. Certification wasn't valued or required in this particular company. And based on his future goals, Tom knew he wanted to obtain additional training.

He applied for a job at another company in Portland, Maine, and it was suggested that if he was truly serious about welding, he should consider attending the Hobart Institute to increase his skills and obtain the certification that would be required by many companies.

"I decided to take the man's advice because I want to be successful," says Tom. "I want to become a well-rounded welder in various welding processes with a high level of confidence in my work."

"Tom has been an excellent student," commented his instructor. "It is great having him in class."

When I asked about his goals, Tom replied, "At this point, I am really interested in pipe welding."

Tom won't be content to just get the job completed. He always strives for perfection. He has already obtained the American Welding Society (AWS) QC - 7 certification that he was able to complete while attending HIWT.

"My future goals include becoming an AWS certified welding inspector. I think I would also enjoy getting into management some day," Tom says.

Born and raised on a farm in Maine, Tom has always enjoyed the outdoors. In high school, he played soccer and basketball and was captain of those teams. His leadership abilities were evident even then. He also enjoys camping, hiking, and snowmobiling and is a NASCAR racing fan.