By Marty Baker, Editor

Joshua Heath Cook is the most recent recipient of the Raymond C. Dunlavy Scholarship presented by the Hobart Institute. Heath is a 2001 graduate of Braxton County High School in Sutton, West Virginia, and the son of Lynn and Andy Cook of Gassaway, WV.

In spite of his busy schedule that included four years of football and basketball, seven years in 4-H, church activities, and holding the office of class president his senior year, Heath managed to complete his high school courses six months early in December of 2000. This allowed him to work full time for a year at Larry's Welding, Inc. before beginning classes at the Hobart Institute in January 2002.

"Heath has shown great enthusiasm for welding," says Larry Craft, his supervisor. "He is very dependable, honest, and hard working. Heath is always willing to learn and try whatever is put before him."

"I have already learned a tremendous amount here at Hobart," says Heath. "Someone once said 'In order to be the best, you have to learn from the best,' and that is what I feel this scholarship is giving me the opportunity to do. HIWT came highly recommended to me by several people, some of whom are former students. I feel I have made a good choice and have not been disappointed."

The scholarship Heath was awarded is for the Structural Welding Program. However, Heath plans to pursue additional courses required for the Combination Structural and Pipe Welding Program.

Comments from his high school English teacher, Aleta Johnson, reinforce the image of Heath as an ambitious student. "Heath is benevolent, hard working, intelligent, and conscientious," says Aleta. "His loyalty, congeniality, and eagerness to please give Heath an advantage over most of his peers."

In speaking with Heath, I asked him about his hobbies.

"My schedule hasn't allowed much time for hobbies," says Heath with a quick smile. "But I enjoy sports, hunting and fishing whenever I have time."

When asked about his goals for the future, Heath quickly explained, "I'm willing to work just about anywhere in the country. I would like to obtain a little experience and then join one of the unions and become a pipe welder."

Without a doubt, Heath will accomplish his goals and his warm personality and polite manners will definitely enhance his ability and skills, making him a true asset to any corporation or organization.