Former Dual Enrollment Student Becomes a Boilermaker Welder
Ryan Clemente began taking classes at Southeastern Technical College in 2019 while still a student at Tattnall County High School. He completed the Basic Shielded Metal Arc Welder (STICK) Certificate and continued his education by taking more classes at STC after his high school graduation. Welding instructor Michael Crumpler said, “Ryan had a great attitude and work ethic. He was determined to do well and get into the Boilermaker Union. After completing his last class at STC, he went to the Local 26 Boilermakers Union in Statesboro for additional practice to further enhance his skills, and six weeks later he was hired by Vulcan Industrial Contractors at Plant Bowen near Cartersville, Georgia.” Mr. Crumpler went on to say that Ryan is a great success story for the STC Welding program and for Dual Enrollment. “He’s making nearly five times the minimum wage rate and he’s only 18 years old!”
When Ryan was asked why he chose Southeastern Technical College, he said, “Because I heard a lot of great things and have seen successful welders come out of Southeastern Tech! Mr. Crumpler has been the best instructor by far – by a long shot – and I’m glad that everything I learned while I was there I’m able to actually use out in the field.” Emphasizing a combination of welding theory and practical application of that theory, the STC Welding program creates experienced welders at the forefront of their field. Welders build the world around them and Southeastern Tech’s Welding program equips students with the tools to build their own opportunities. The program also has a number of corporate partners which employ STC graduates and those industries are always looking for skilled employees.
A diploma and five certificates are offered through the Welding and Joining Technology program at Southeastern Tech. The diploma program generally takes three semesters to complete. For more information about the Welding and Joining Technology program at Southeastern Technical College, contact Mr. Crumpler at (912) 538-3257.
Ryan Clemente
