Welding

The Welding program provides students with hands-on training in a high-demand trade, focusing on technical mastery of SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW welding. Students will utilize modern equipment to work with diverse materials—including Ferris and No-Ferris materials—while refining skills in blueprint reading and precision fabrication. Participants gain the expertise needed for immediate employment or to continue in a college welding program, positioning themselves for careers with significant earning potential.

• Hands-on Activities- Students start by mastering foundational skills like running weld beads on practice plates and using oxy-fuel torches or plasma cutters to precisely cut and shape raw metal. As they gain proficiency in techniques like MIG, TIG, and stick welding, they transition to fabrication projects. Students also engage in real-world shop maintenance and repair by fixing broken equipment to keep their workspace organized. 
• Real World Opportunities- Throughout the year, students will meet with professional guest speakers, participate in state-wide competitions, and have the opportunity to design and produce products. 
• Related Careers- Welding Fabricator, Sheet Metal Welder, Robotic Metal Technician, Pipefitter, Military Support Welder, and many more.
• College Credit- Welding is a direct college credit program with Mid Michigan College. Students who successfully complete the program will earn the following credits:

Year I

• WLD 126-Sense 1A (3 credits)
• WLD 127-Sense 1B (3 credits)

Year 2

• WLD 130-Metal Fabrication (3 credits)
• WLD 245-Pipe Welding (3 credits)

Instructor:  Justin VanCourt

Year Started at CCRESA: 2022

Work Experience in Career Field: Bridge Welder, Fabricator, Welder, Ship Welder, and Pontoon Welder

What inspired you to teach in your program career field? Over the years, I noticed the decline in skilled trades workers. I was inspired to be able to teach the next generation of welders in the same district I attended.

What are some interests outside of the classroom? Hunting, fishing, spending time at my cabin, working at my own business, gaming, and wrenching on cars.

How do you hope your students will remember you? They might not see it now, but the world is coming at them fast, and the way we operate the class is very much like a job. I hope to better prepare them for their next journey. I hope to be remembered as the teacher who treated his students like adults and gave them the best chance to succeed.