The most recent addition to the staff at the Hobart Institute of Welding Technology is Bryce Obaugh.  He joined the HIWT team in February 2005 and will be teaching the various skill courses as he completes the extensive instructor orientation. 

“Depending on their background, we expect to spend six months to one year working with new hires before they are ready to teach our basic courses,” says Ron Scott, Vice President and General Manager. 

Hitting the ground running, Bryce has a few advantages.  He completed the nine-month Combination Structural and Pipe Welding program at Hobart Institute in 2001 following graduation from William Byrd High School in Vinton, Virginia.  So he is familiar with the Hobart curriculum and teaching methods that focus on welding skills.  He proceeded through the technology-based Mechanical Engineering Technology/ Welding Technology program at Edison Community College, earning an associate degree in May 2004.    He then gained industry experience in a Quality Assurance / Quality Control position at Faurecia Exhaust Systems in Troy. 

“I find welding fascinating because a lot of time and thought goes into it.  It is not just connecting metal together,” explains Bryce.  “I decided to further my education at Edison so that I would not need to spend my entire life under a shield.  I enjoy the challenges of teaching others.”

“Any time one can expand their capabilities through education, it opens new doors for them in the workplace,” says Ron.  “It is the job of our instructors to assist students in learning excellent skills and work habits, so that it becomes a winning situation for everyone involved.”