Welding Technology

Meet Our Alumni

Andrew Garrison

After completing his welding certificate, Andrew Garrison is now building submarine components for a U.S. naval contractor. The Fairfield native joined BWXT Technologies at its Mt. Vernon, Ind. facility in 2017. The company manufactures heavy components for naval nuclear reactors and aircraft carriers.

Andrew had been out of high school for three years when he chose to continue his education through OCC's Welding Program.

“The thought of going back to school was a little overwhelming,” he said. “I wasn’t confident. My girlfriend had been to college and she pushed me to do it. I went to OCC and it was the best experience. I would do it again. It is never too late to go back to school.”

Andrew encourages others with an interest in the field to enroll in the program.

“I would recommend it to anyone,” he said. “I liked the atmosphere. It is more affordable than other welding schools, and the program is just as good. There was so much stuff I learned.”

Cliffton Tewell

Cliffton Tewell is getting the opportunity to travel and perform a job he truly enjoys after earning his Welding and Cutting Certificate at Olney Central College.

The week following his graduation the Lawrence County native began working on ethanol plant construction in Iowa for Winbco. The firm, which is based in Ottumwa, provides services in the field of sheet metal work contractors.  

“Graduating from the welding program helped push me in front of other people who might have been interested in the job, but didn’t have that training,” Cliffton said. “OCC definitely made this possible. Everything I learned here, mathematics, blueprint reading, I use in the field.”

Since joining Winbco, Cliffton has worked on new plants in Emmetsburg and Nevada, Iowa and assisted in repairs to tanks in Lyons, Kan.

Cliffton is thrilled with the doors the welding program has opened for him and the opportunities working for Winbco has afforded.

“I absolutely love what I do,” Cliffton added. “I get up in the morning and get to create something with my hands. I’m involved in something that is going to be there for years to come and I’m putting my stamp on it. This is a skilled labor not everyone can do. It is a very well respected career and something you can take pride in. People can look at the welds and they can tell a craftsman did that.”