A SUCCESS STORY:  PAUL CROUSE

What is success? It may be described as the measure of attaining a desired end… or to succeed in accordance with one's desires.

However, when I approached Paul Crouse of Lafayette, Indiana, about contributing to this "Success Story," his first reaction was, "I've always assumed I was "just doing my job"... not exactly providing material for a success story!

Paul was a student at the Hobart Institute from August 1985 until April 1986. He began welding while he was still in high school as a member of Future Farmers of America. He won the Junior Division State Championship during his sophomore year. While a senior, Paul worked half-days at Eli Lilly - Tippecanoe Labs as a welder's helper.

"It was during these years that I decided to pursue welding (and related fields) as a career," says Paul. "It was a great experience!"

For the past 15 years, Paul has been employed at Wabash National Corporation in Lafayette, Indiana.

"My Hobart training has been a valuable asset," says Paul.

Beginning in an entry position, Paul has moved into increasingly more responsible positions.  He is now the RoadRailer Quality Assurance Technician.

Paul explains, “I chose to "bid" for the job due to the possibilities that existed in expanding my welding experience and knowledge.  RoadRailer equipment is unique in that it provides for BI-modal use of a trailer (on both, highway and railroad applications).  Due to this aspect, welding takes on a greater importance in the structure and a wider range of base metals and filler metals are used.  My duties have included: welding procedure development and testing (WPS / PQR), weld inspection (visual, dye penetrant and ultra sonic) and welder training, along with the opportunity to work with several welding codes (i.e., AWS D1.1, D15.1, AAR, EN, DIN, etc.).  The QA functions of process auditing, problem solving and SPC (statistical process control) continue, as well.  I also still enjoy taking on the usual "need a welder quick" side jobs and those generally turn out to be challenging fun.  The learning never stops!  I am an AWS member and still intend to return to Hobart to become a CWI.” [certified welding inspector]

“To high school students, I would offer this,” says Paul.  “Spend all of the time, energy, and money you can possibly find on your welding education while you are young and not hindered by a full time job and personal responsibilities (even though it is “boring” at times.)  You’ll be better prepared and more valuable entering the work force.  Always keep an open mind and never assume that you know all there is to know about welding – it is one career that will never fail to teach you something new and will continually open new doors.”

We're certain Paul's success story isn't unusual for Hobart graduates. And while many welders hold a number of jobs throughout the course of their careers, each one has achieved individual success. Most will agree, however, that the training they received at Hobart has strongly influenced their careers and contributed to those many success stories.