Image Army Responses: Letters from our Readers

I recently received the “Image Army” Certificate and letter.  The certificate has a beautiful frame and all.  I shall always consider that certificate my “life time achievement award.”  As a prison inmate for the past 36 years, there is nothing more important that to receive positive recognition from the “outside world,” and that certificate is the ultimate recognition because Hobart is the number 1 welding institute in the world.

I am now going on 60 years old and have many physical problems from old injuries in prison.  I have a lot of chipped bones, calcium deposits in joints and other physical defects so I have retired and am on “medical unassigned” status, which in prison means no more work. 

I will send you pictures of things I’ve made here as soon as I can get them, but this is prison and pictures are very difficult to get but… I’ll get some!  Again, I thank you sincerely for the letter and certificate and frame.  Respectfully,                                                                                                                      ~ A. R. Rock

What have I done to improve the “Image of Welding”?
I dress in clean (not tattered/burned) clothes each day.
I maintain a high level of personal hygiene.
I remain sober at all times on the job.
I do not use profanity on the job.
I am polite when answering questions posed by people passing by.
I am professional in all aspects of my deportment when on the job.
I clean up after myself on the job.
I keep my truck neat and well maintained / painted.

I do these things because each day, I am the ambassador of my profession!

~ Graham Van Breems, Florida

IMPROVING THE “IMAGE”:

Things that I have done when I get to a job site/customer:

Have all documentation available to their quality control inspectors concerning the weld repair or fabrication you are to accomplish.

Any consumables should be clearly and neatly displayed in clear zip lock bags.

Cables are neatly coiled and ready to use.

Always display the highest degree of professionalism to all concerned. 

Generally, a neat and orderly presentation of yourself and your equipment makes a very good lasting impression to the customer.  When I arrive at the customer’s site, I assure all personnel concerned that I have all the appropriate safety equipment and current documentation for the assigned repair or fabrication that will be accomplished to their specifications.  This has always generated very favorable comments to me and has proved to be an effective tool in networking my capabilities in all phases of the skill.  Conduct on job sites has always been the utmost concern for the welding trades and skills.   

         ~ Douglas Brooks, New York

Dear Phil,
Of course, I'd like to become a member of the "The Image Army" and receive a certificate to become an honorary member.  What have I done?  Many things, but let me mention a few:
·    Frequent speaker to area high schools on the opportunities in the welding and joining industry.
·    For the past several years, I've been a member of the panel immediately after the NCCER national telecast for Opportunities in Construction for high school sophomores and juniors.  This is in both Mobile and Baldwin Counties [Alabama].
·    Member of the Advisory Council to several schools to include North Baldwin School for Technology in Bay Minette, Alabama; the Bryant Center in Irvington, Alabama; Bishop State Community College in Mobile, Alabama.
·    Let's not forget the American Welding Society as a member of the Board for 12 years, and of course, national president in 1997.
·    AWS Foundation trustee since 1990 and Chairman of the Board of Trustees since 1993 and my current term will end in 2004.

Phil, I'm in complete support of your gold collar concept and of course we're using your concept for one of our scholarship programs in the AWS Foundation.

Best regards.                                                                                                                             ~ Ron Pierce, Alabama

First I would like to state that I attended your training program for CWI / CWE last September during the week of 9-11. I must say that it was a difficult time for all of us that were there attending classes. I did receive my certifications and was impressed with Hobart's training program for the CWI / CWE.

I am the welding instructor at East Central Technical College (ECTC) in Fitzgerald, Georgia. I have built this program from scratch and I'm very proud of the success of the program. One of the reasons I think that my program has been successful is that I do a lot of hands-on welding in the form of projects.  I believe that students need hands-on learning because there is only so much that you can teach in a welding booth.

Most of the projects we take on are, in some way, helping our community. We have built grills for local churches.  This summer quarter we built two grills for our Student Government Association to be used on two campuses that will be used for school and community functions.  Next quarter, we are going to build a grill for the local Boy Scout Troop, a grill for another local church, and a grill that will be raffled off by the ECTC Foundation for fund raising.  These grills are first class, which reflects on my welding program and the ability of the students.  We not only provide a service to our community, but much-needed fabrication skills are taught and work ethics are developed thru this process. I believe that the Image of Welding has been improved through our involvement with our community and school by what we are doing here at ECTC's welding program.

 Thank you.                                                   ~ George D. Tomberlin, Welding Instructor, CWI / CWE, Georgia

I would like to tell you about our welding program here at Wheatland High School.  I was hired to build the welding program in l988.  At that time, there was one shop class in a world-class facility.  Currently there are 4 welding classes, and 6 woodworking classes (we had to hire additional help).  The welding classes consist of three beginning and one advanced level course.  The main focus has been welder qualification to AWS D1.1 (I am a Certified Welding Inspector) and student projects.  We build about 10-15 trailers for local community businesses each year.  We have strong partnerships with local welding shops and are able to place 100% of our program graduates in available positions if they are 18 years old or older.  We are part of our local Regional Occupational Program, which is a strong component of our local educational system.  I feel the success of our program is directly related to our business and industry partnerships.  We host an annual "Job Shadow Day" where we place 10-15 junior and senior welders who are interested in the career field.  My enthusiasm for welding helps the program and our local support by the school administration and board of education helps also.    Sincerely,     ~ Jeff Magill, California

I am the vocational supervisor for Lives Under Construction Boy's Ranch, a nonprofit residential care facility for troubled and at-risk youth. We have recently completed a 4,000 square ft. welding education facility that we use to teach our boys how to weld.  Every boy that comes here is required to learn the 10 most basic skills of the welding trade. They are required to do this in all six trade areas we offer. They then get the option of choosing the area in which they would like to learn more. About one half of the boys will choose welding because they enjoyed the beginner’s class so much. We then take them through many phases of the welding trade and they become proficient at stick, MIG, gas, plasma cutting and soon, TIG.  The boys are required to complete a personal project, and spend many hours fabricating items to be sold.

Boys are given career guidance and are encouraged to seek further education from schools such as yours.  Lives Under Construction Boy's Ranch has improved the Image of Welding by constructing a well-lit, well ventilated, safe working environment that is kept spotlessly clean.  All equipment is painted bright and the walls are bright white. The floor is sealed and is kept squeaky clean.  We are showing our students, as well as the many visitors to our facility, that gone are the days of dark, damp, dirty shops. Today's welding environment is a clean, safe, and desirable place to work.

I enjoy receiving "The World Of Welding", and allow my students to read it as well. I hope to be sending you a student soon!

Sincerely,                                                                                                                                ~ John Luecke, Missouri

We need more people to speak out on this issue. One thing I would like to add, I told my son he needed to get with his guidance counselor about applying for scholarships and his remark back to me was honest and disturbing, "Those go only to jocks and brains, I have no chance of ever getting one.”  I did tell him he still needed to try, but I know what he says is all too true. Our country puts more into sports then it does into skilled trades. Thank you again for your time.                                                                              ~ Mrs. Evans

I’m working with disadvantaged youth in our mountain community of Whitmore, in northern California, by showing them the different aspects of welding, not only as a hobby, but also as a career.  They, as well as I, enjoy reading your publication.                                                                                 ~ R.J. Daugherty, California

I am writing this letter regarding how my fellow associates and I may contribute to the Image of Welding and represent the Image Army.  I am 23 years old and currently residing at a correctional institution.  This institution serves primarily as a vocational trade center for convicted felons.  My attitude was poor upon arriving here, considering the circumstances that I had created for myself.  I was bitter and disappointed with myself. 

I had always considered myself to be a good worker with a strong work ethic.  Prior to being incarcerated I held several general labor positions in the building trades as well as in industrial environments.  That seemed to be part of my problem (several jobs) in that I was lacking stability and moved from job-to-job too often.  I learned a lot, but I had no chief aim or direction for myself.  There has been a very positive change in my life since arriving here.  I knew it was time to grow up and start completing things I had started. 

I enrolled into the one-year welding program immediately.  Upon entering the welding shop, operated by Mr. Frank Ruffilo (Welding Instructor, Hobart graduate and instructor, B.A. Ferris State University) I instantly knew I was in the presence of a knowledgeable and well-respected man in the welding field.  This great man of humility and integrity is a living encyclopedia of welding as well as a skilled outdoorsman.  There is an abundance of engineering positions available to this well-educated gentleman, yet he comes to work daily and trains young men how to operate multiple welding processes and produce sound welds.  Several of our students who graduate this course and are released, are hired at companies that specialize in auto and structural welding.  There are a lot of young men who came in with criminal ways… and leave with basic welding skills that allow them to go into companies at entry level.  Most importantly, Mr. Ruffilo stresses safety and work ethic first and foremost.  These students also learn about the many resources like Hobart where they can improve their skills and continue their learning.  I, as well as every man before me who have graduated from our welding program, owe Mr. Ruffilo thanks and respect.  The best way to do this is to represent integrity through our work when released, continue to learn, and be productive citizens. 

I will be released in June of 2003 and I have already received aid and enrolled into the welding technology associates degree program at Grand Rapids Community College.  I am so excited to enter society with a marketable skill and a real sense of work ethic.  I only wish that young men wouldn’t have to face the adversity I did just to be introduced to this wonderful world of welding.  I plan to obtain as much education as possible about welding and someday open an inner city welding academy that prepares young men and women to work in our promising field.  This is my plan to contribute to the Image of Welding; however, for now, I am sharing the knowledge I have gained from Mr. Ruffilo and the shop’s lead welder, Chad Yancer.  I share this knowledge with the students I tutor daily.  I also try my best to lead by example; one way is by saving money to purchase textbooks and training materials.  When young men see me with my Pocket Welding Guide, a mandatory text for every welder, they become curious and this usually leads to conversation about how much fun welding is and the abundance of opportunities for those who are properly trained.  I believe the Image of Welding is important and, as an apprentice welder, I will continue to observe and educate myself about the industry.  I know a lot of young men who might be heading the wrong way in their youth who could use welding.  Welding promotes patience, work ethic, and integrity.  To me, welding is more than a trade.  It is a way of life and a true art and science.                                          Sincerely, ~ N. Doggett, Michigan

I work with Mr. Doggett [previous letter] in the welding program.  Before I entered the welding program, I had no direction in my life.  I was young and didn’t know what to do with my life.  Nor did I have any marketable skills or trade to rely on.  I got into the welding program and graduated in 1999.  Four days later, Mr. Ruffilo hired me as a cribman.  That day I became the “Rookie”.  Mr. Ruffilo had given me an opportunity of a lifetime and on that day; I realized the direction my life would take.  My future is bright and I’m ready to expand my education.  I’ve been a cribman for approximately three years and now I’m the lead welder.  I’ve learned endless amounts of knowledge from Mr. Ruffilo and when I get out, I plan on continuing my education.  Mr. Ruffilo inspired me and many others to go out and achieve our best. 

As a welder, there are many opportunities out there and nobody can hold you back but yourself.  Mr. Ruffilo always speaks highly of Hobart and uses a majority of Hobart training materials.  One day I hope I’m able to take some Hobart courses to help my life and career, so I can pursue knowledge about the career I have chosen.  When I get out, I hope to teach in a high school.  For those who are willing to learn, I’ll teach and share my knowledge and skill to help them build a wonderful career in the welding field.  The high school is an untapped resource of people slightly younger than I who are willing to work and learn.  I hope to do my part in spreading a positive and constructive Image of Welding.  This course has touched many lives in a tremendous way and I’m proud to be a part of this program.  My desire is to be a productive citizen and an asset to the industry when released.  I will always strive to improve and contribute to the Image of Welding.                                                              Sincerely, ~ C. Yancer, Michigan

A nation is denied its technological advancement if it overlooks the Image of Welding technology and I am proud to be part of the team.  I will soon join the team in the U.S.A.             ~ H. Nourdine, Obuasi, Adansi

What have I done to improve the Image of Welding?  First and foremost, I’ve taught many young welders about the importance of wearing safety protection while standing in a work area.  Once I’m sure that the welder is not going to be a casualty or a future liability to the job, we’ll next talk about the safety of the equipment he or she will be working with.  To me, eye protection is the most important thing that should be considered while working around any type of metal that could chip very easily.  Any welder or others associated with welding operations should be provided with glasses designed to provide maximum protection and at the same time to afford adequate vision for proper welding technique.

Before a welder begins welding, he or she should check for the following safety measures in the work area: 1) Flammable or combustible materials  (2) Ventilation and respiratory equipment  (3) Connections to welding machine and gas cylinder valves  (4) Hoses should be checked for leaks.  Always be aware that there are many hazards involved in welding.  Toxic fumes, electric shock from wearing wet gloves while working, and flying sparks and radiation from your arc are just some of the things a welder should consider.  I’ve been in the welding field for over twenty-five years and I highly recommend the use of safety equipment on any job.

I support the trade of welding because without it, where would the world be today?  Welding, like I’ve told many, is more than a skill.  It’s an adventure.  A good welder can honestly make a career in the industry once he or she has received the proper training from an accredited school such as the Hobart Institute of Welding.  I can honestly say that welding will never lose its place in our productive society. 

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to express what I feel I’ve done to improve and support the Image of Welding.  Respectfully                                               ~ Harold B. Clark, Certified Marine Welder, Florida

Dear Phil, I wish to commend the effort you are making in the Image of Welding Army.  I am presently working for Willbros Nigeria as a Quality Assurance / Quality Control Inspector of welding and fabrication.  I entered the welding profession not knowing where I was going.  But today, I have direction and I am heading toward consultancy in welding technology, training, metallurgy, and inspection. 

When I went to school last year to collect my certificate, a friend of mine (in his final year) mentioned a new student (girl) who chose Petroleum Engineering as a first choice and Petroleum Processing as a second choice.  By the time she received her acceptance letter, they had scheduled her into welding and fabrication.  When she attempted to change her schedule, classes were already filled.  She said her next option would be to try next year.  I met her and asked her why she was not going to give welding and fabrication a try.  This was our discussion:

Jane:  I was told that welding students hardly every graduate from the institute.  Is this true?

Derek:  It is not true because four others and I graduated with upper credit in our dept.  In the last two sessions, welding students maintained the overall best in academic performance in the entire institute.

Jane:  Welding is a risky profession to take on and people say there are a lot of hazards involved.

Derek:  In every job you do, you must put safety first and it applies in welding.  Take a look at me.  Do I have burns and cuts on my skin?  Am I wearing corrective glasses?  No… because I observe all the safety rules and regulations.  I have worked offshore on a drilling rig as a welder/fabricator, in the refinery, petrochemical plants, etc.

Jane:  What is the future in the welding profession?

Derek:  The sky is the limit.  I started work ten years ago as a helper and worked my way up.  Then went to study one year and became a structural welder; continued to study two years and obtained a national diploma in 2002, making it exactly ten years.  I am now a welding inspector, hold a National Diploma and it does not end here.  I still have plans to go further.  So the sky is the limit.  Welders are certified to different codes, for example ABS, AWS D1.1, ASME, etc.  You don’t have these certifications in other trades.  With them, you can work anywhere in the world.  Welding has opportunities like inspection, sales, welder craftsmanship, teaching, fabrication, consultancy, etc.  Job satisfaction for welders is higher than for most industrial workers.  The welding knows more than the average worker and is better paid for it.  A good welder is part electrician, metallurgist, chemist, physicist, design and mechanical engineer, welding engineer, inspector, etc. and would always be in demand worldwide as industries keep expanding.  Existing industries need to be maintained and codes are international.  I know a lot of people who are advanced in age, but they say, “I will weld until I ‘kick the bucket’!”  What a profession!  We are always a breed apart in the industry.

Jane is doing well in her welding course and sent me an e-mail thanking me for the Image of Welding that I presented to her.  She is going to do her first industrial training job with us at Willbros.  Phil, I appreciate the work you are doing and I would like you to keep it up.   Sincerely yours              ~ Derek C. Isu, Nigeria