A few seconds of tragedy can change a life and a career path.  One such experience on October 8, 2002, has affected Adam Grimes.  On that day, Adam was working as a supervisor for a company that repairs restaurant and commercial cleaning equipment.   He was a passenger and his co-worker was behind the wheel of a vehicle that was hit head-on by a drunk driver.  During the next ten days, Adam was in a coma and had suffered severe physical injuries.  Extensive cognitive and physical therapy followed the two months he spent in the hospital.  The results of his injuries made it impossible for Adam to return to the fast-paced position he had held for ten years. 

Turning to the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation

[in Ohio at http://www.rsc.ohio.gov/VR_Services/BVR/bvr.html] and the Bureau of Workers Compensation [in Ohio at http://www.ohiobwc.com] for advice and for financial support, Adam was able to begin the five month Structural Welding Program at Hobart Institute in May 2005.  He has found the work to be challenging and really tough at times.  All the activities that most of us take for granted are the equivalent to at least four times more physically and emotionally challenging for Adam. 

“I have been grateful for the extra practice time and the support of the instructors,” says Adam.  “My goal is to begin my own welding business and to serve agricultural customers.” 

Adam resides on a 40-acre farm and has been grateful for the emotional support of Karlynda, his wife of 18 years, and their two daughters, ages 16 and 9.

Hobart Institute is proud to be a part of assisting welders to achieve their goals through the BVR and BWC programs.  The 21-week Structural Welding Program at the Hobart Institute prepares students for entry-level fabrication and construction work, job shops, and other entry level related positions.  The Institute operates under contracts with the BVR and BWC in most states as a training resource for those experiencing the need for these services.