The basic gas tungsten arc welding class at the Hobart Institute of Welding Technology (HIWT) in September brought students from across the country together to share in a common goal of improving their skills.  

“I wanted the special attention that is provided by Hobart Institute to perfect my TIG welds,” says Brennan Bresnahan of San Diego, California.  “I have certifications in other welding processes and wanted to add a new dimension to my welding experiences.”

From Maryland came Brian Jerdon and Larry Neal who are co-workers employed by the Architect of the Capitol in Washington, DC.  Their jobs involve primarily repair and welding of sheet metal including work on the dome on our nation’s Capitol.  They also perform other necessary welding repairs and construction in the shadow of the Washington Monument.

Both are members of Sheet Metal Workers Local 100.  Their supervisor recommended them for training at HIWT. 

“I am enjoying the two-weeks of training,” says Brian, “and would like to return to HIWT in the future as our time permits.” 

Finding the time for training is a challenge for many companies.  But the results are beneficial.  Shane Diehl is an employee of FT Precision.  His job involves maintenance on dies, cleaning and repairing them for aluminum die cast machines. 

“I received a promotion that requires me to have a basic knowledge of TIG welding,” says Shane.  “I don’t weld on a daily basis, so this has been a new experience for me.  I’ve never really had welding training before.”

A marine equipment repairman / boat mechanic employed by Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska, Bruce McDonough convinced his supervisor that it would increase his skills to travel to Ohio for the training.

“I chose Hobart because of the intense, two-week format and because of the name brand recognition.  I work on boats up to 35-foot, both in and out of water,” says Bruce.  “I have found my instructor well-prepared to respond to any questions or welding issues I have presented.”

Welding Instructor Tom Crawford says, “Working with small classes at HIWT allows instructors to provide one-on-one attention to the variety of student needs.  It is interesting for me to have the opportunity to meet a diverse group of people who bring their individual experiences to the class.”