When the after-school Welding Works program was introduced into District 228, there was one goal in mind: get kids into a career in welding. This program was started almost 7 years ago when Mr. Brown (shop teacher) over at Oak Forest High School was offered the spot as instructor. 

Since welding 1 and 2 were already an in-school elective class, the after-school Welding Works program offers that extra practice for students who are pretty interested in this field of work. Many students who have graduated from the district have transitioned directly from high school over into the field with employers such as Local 597 Pipefitters and MI-JACK who have direct ties with the district. 

Allowing students to fully understand the concepts and basics is all they need to learn in order to go chase their career. Brand new welding rooms over at Oak Forest and Bremen High School makes the welding experience even better for students who are working with welding this year.  

“I really like the class and club because I want to become a pipefitter or hvac tech,” junior Erik Meza said.

In Welding Works, you can choose to weld with arc, mig, flux core, tig, plasma, torch cutting/welding and gas welding. This is a skill taught thoroughly by teachers such as Mr. Brown who has had first hand experiences in the engineering and trades fields. 

After working as an industrial engineer for 10 years, in 2001, he found out his old shop teacher was retiring, so he applied for the job at Oak Forest High School and got it. 

“There is so much to teach and learn and never a dull moment,” Mr. Brown said. “I love the variety, the nonstop action and learning.” 

Having the valuable experience as well as skill set, he is not only a great teacher but mentor for his students. 

The Welding Works Club is limited to 20 people per year and is located at Oak Forest.  The club runs all year long. The cost is a fee of $40 that covers a t-shirt, materials and pizza night costs. The club meets once a week on Thursday from 4-6pm. 

This is a truly fun club that many would enjoy if they are considering going into the trades but welding in particular. If staying after school is not something for you, you can always choose welding as an elective, junior and senior year.