Columbia City High School and WCCS Career and Technical Education celebrate the 2025 welding students for their certifications through the American Welding Society (AWS).
Most recently, the one-year welding students: Mason Coffelt, Raymond (RJ) Farris, Logan Hardy, Ilias Kelly, Gerardo Maldonado Ayala, Chase Myers, Rilee Pressler, Jacob Ruiz, Itzik Semons, Edward Smith, Jose Vasquez, Hendrix Watkins and Reid Williams passed the AWS Gas Metal Arc Welding Certification in the 4G position.
The gas metal arc welding in the overhead position (4G) requires students to weld the underside of a horizontally positioned piece of metal, requiring skill to work with gravity to create a bead that is strong enough to hold the metal together for several applications.
“I’m not great with academics. I’m more of a hands-on learner and I struggled with school until I found the welding program. Now I have found something I’m passionate about that I can turn into a career after high school and provide for my family,” said Gerardo Maldonado Ayala, CCHS senior.
Led by Mr. Matt Rusher, the CTE Welding Program has earned a 100 percent pass rate in various certifications for the last five years. As an experienced industry professional, Rusher brings expertise and great leadership to the program.
“This group of students works hard and I’m proud of their persistence. They are the first group of students to pass with 100 percent in the 4G position. This is the hardest of the four positions, not because of the weld itself but because of the challenge of seeing the weld and getting comfortable. There is nothing to support your arms and students have to become comfortable with the uncomfortable,” said Matt Rusher, CCHS Welding Instructor.
The Welding Program is one of CCHS Career and Technical Education programming, which offers more than 24 pathways in various career fields. Applications are available to students during their sophomore year to apply for either the two-year or one-year welding program.
Founded in 1919, AWS is a nonprofit organization with a global mission to advance the science, technology and application of welding. The organization provides the most widely recognized welding-industry certifications.
# # # #
About WCCS Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Whitley County Consolidated Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) is committed to providing innovative, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for successful careers and lifelong professional development. Our comprehensive CTE programs bridge academic knowledge with practical skills, offering students pathways to explore, learn, and excel in diverse technical and professional fields.
Our 24 pathways offer a dynamic curriculum designed to meet the evolving demands of today's workforce. Through expert instruction and industry-aligned coursework, we empower students to develop critical technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and professional competencies that will set them apart in their future careers.
We are dedicated to creating clear pathways that connect education with career success, helping students transform their potential into professional achievement.
For more information about our CTE programs, course offerings, and opportunities, visit wccsonline.com/o/cchs/page/career-and-technical-education.
About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at [www.wccsonline.com](https://www.wccsonline.com).
Media Contact
Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent mcdermottla@wccsonline.com
Kennedy Saggars, WCCS Marketing Director saggarskt@wccsonline.com