Submitted
GOVE COUNTY - Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland started its welding outreach program in 2019 with Brad Wagoner, instructor, from Quinter. The program serves students from seven different area high schools - Wheatland, Golden Plains, Hill City, Hoxie, Oakley, Quinter, and Trego.
While working half-days for two years, students gain knowledge in multiple welding processes and also metal fabrication. During the course students have the opportunity to gain fifteen NC3 welding and fabrication certifications and gain hands-on experience.
Some of the alumni from Trego Community High School, WaKeeney, include Kolby Walt, Dylan Pfeifer, Colton Riedel, and Hayden Opat.
The spring 2023 TCHS graduating students from the welding program are Chad Malinowsky, Cooper Minson, Hugh Turley, Andrew Post, and Matthew Ghumm.
Wagoner was recognized as the NWKTC 2023 Employee of the Year as well at the graduation ceremony.