Chris Ring uses a MIG welder to weld two pieces of metal together.

THOMASVILLE — Welding, around since “the blacksmith days,” is still an important part of everyday life. And students at Thomas County Central High School have an opportunity to learn the skill.

TCCHS Welding teacher Travis Barrett said, though techniques have evolved since its inception, the occupation has been around “for a long time.”

“Welding is the fusion of metal through different processes of concentrated heat,” Barrett explained.

Barrett has been teaching at TCCHS for seven years but was a welder in the industry for 14 years prior to becoming an instructor.

“I wanted to make a difference in some students’ lives so they will understand that learning a trade or skill would be useful in the future,” he said.

Senior Miranda Dees loves the class because her instructor “is a joy to be around.”

“He teaches well, he’s very kind and funny, and there is never a dull moment in his class,” she said.

Welding is part of the school’s Career, Technical and Agricurltural Education, or CTAE, program. In Barrett’s class, students learn the proper technique used in the different welding processes.

Student Erik Anfinson intends to get certified and hold a career that involves welding.

“I have always loved to work hard and I love to learn as well,” Anfinson said. “The welding field is very productive and profitable. It’s also in high demand for young, skilled employees. We are the builders of America’s future.”

Some of the skills they learn in welding class include oxy-fuel cutting, stick welding, mig welding and tig welding. Students will learn the important skills that will help them in their careers.

Anfinson believes the class has taught him many useful professional and personal skills.

“It helps to further develop your perception, your coordination, your self-confidence, your analytical skills, self-discipline and respect for your safety, as well as others,” he said. “These are all skills that will aid students in their future careers, be they welders or waiters.”

Dees, who lives next to a welding company, said she’s always been interested in the field. She also plans to pursue a career in welding and enjoys learning new things and practicing in the shop, even if she is the only girl.

“The reaction from the boys is amusing, too: ‘a girl in welding class?’” she said. “It is a challenge to do something typically for males, but improving myself and showing the boys that a girl is perfectly capable of doing a man’s job is very rewarding.”