(BRECKENRIDGE, Texas) – William Reid, of Cisco, was looking for a good place to learn more welding techniques.
After reviewing his options, Reid said he chose Texas State Technical College’s Welding Technology because of the respect everyone at TSTC showed him. He said he made the correct decision to attend TSTC in Breckenridge.
“Everyone I talked to was so friendly over the phone and was so helpful,” he said. “The customer service of TSTC sold me on coming to school. Everyone welcomed me and was always available for any questions.”
Welding instructor Stephen Hope said he likes to tell prospective students about TSTC, knowing that the way people are treated is important.
“It is really good to know that William chose to attend TSTC because of how he was treated and respected,” he said.
One concern Reid did not have to worry about was traveling to Breckenridge three days a week.
“My grandmother lives in Breckenridge, and I stay with her,” he said. “She is glad I am here for the three days I am in class.”
Now in his second semester studying for a certificate of completion, Reid said he has been able to learn new techniques, thanks to Hope.
“I would say one of the most difficult things I have had to learn was TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding,” he said. “At first, I was really skeptical of doing it, but our instructors have shown us how it is done and made it look really easy.”
TIG welding is an arc welding process that produces the weld with a non-consumable tungsten electrode, Hope said.
Reid said Hope reminds him of his high school agriculture science teacher and appreciates how he works with students.
“He will do anything for his students and wants them to be successful,” he said. “He also likes to spend time with us and talk about how we are doing. We are more than just students, and that is something I appreciate.”
Reid does not have plans after he completes the program but knows he would like to return to Cisco. He said he could build fences and “barndominiums,” buildings usually built with steel that include living areas and a shop/garage.
“I know he will do a good job in whatever he chooses to do. I have seen some of his work, and he is going to be a good welder,” Hope said.
According to onetonline.org, welders can earn a yearly median salary of more than $45,000 in Texas. These jobs are expected to increase 13% by 2028 in the state, according to the website.
TSTC offers Welding Technology at each of its 10 campuses located throughout Texas.
Welding Technology is one of nine programs at TSTC that have money-back guarantees. The college’s commitment to welding students is simple: If they do not have a job in their field within six months of graduation, they will receive a full refund of their tuition. For more information on the money-back guarantee program, visit https://www.tstc.edu/admissions/tuition/.
For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.
