Often we hear the "younger generation" making comments like, "I want to do something different!" Or, "I just want to get away from my hometown!" They are seeking something better… or perhaps just a new adventure. This scenario is not so for Zach Kirkpatrick of Newport, Ohio.

"I want to be a welder and a member of the Boilermakers Union Local 667 of Winfield, West Virginia," says Zach. "Just like my uncle, my cousin, and my step-dad!"

And like his uncle, John Tice (HIWT - 1972) and his cousin, Brian Wise (HIWT - 1999) Zach chose Hobart Institute of Welding Technology to begin his own adventure. He did not take any welding courses at Frontier High School where he was a member of the varsity basketball team for two years and graduated in 2000. He then enrolled in courses at the Hobart Institute that would lead to his Boilermaker's apprenticeship including basic and advanced shielded metal arc welding, shielded metal arc welding of pipe, basic gas tungsten arc welding, and gas tungsten arc welding of 2-inch pipe. The knowledge Zach has obtained will enhance his skill and facilitate the transition into the union.

"I am getting good grades in the classroom, but had a little trouble the first week or two with learning to weld," Zach commented. "But I got the hang of it and it is easier now. I really like it a lot!"

To earn money toward his education, Zach worked following high school drilling wells and farming. In his spare time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and basketball. Zach is the son of Kim and Mark Bartrug of Newport.