College welding students showcase talents at 11th Carhartts & Caviar Welding Showcase and Auction
A diverse selection of intricately crafted metal art creations were in the spotlight during the 11th Carhartts and Caviar Welding Showcase and Auction at Great Plains College on March 9.
The fundraiser in support of the Welding program and the scholarship fund at Great Plains College attracted a capacity audience as support for this event continues to remain high.
“I think it’s largely because we’re Swift Current and that’s what we do. The community comes out every year in full force. The business, the sponsors, everybody wants to get involved and it has become a very sought after event. It’s unique. It’s different. And it’s different every year,” explained Welding instructor Jared Mckenzie.
He explained that the showcase of student works is an important showcase for those in the program, and for potential welding program students. “Obviously, financially for us it’s a great boost for our scholarship program. A lot of these kids that come in they don’t have the financial means, so even that $500 scholarship they make goes a long way. Especially in our welding program with the cost of coveralls, boots and helmets and equipment that’s so expensive, that’s a huge contributing factor to us here.”
“Plus it’s good for the community to come into our building, to get here and see what we do, to showcase our programs.”
“And it opens eyes to what’s possible out there. Whether you want to take welding and be a pipeliner, or whether you want to be an artist. It just shows a lot of different sides.”
Mckenzie noted the gala atmosphere during the evening adds to the creativity of the welded metal art pieces.
“This does not look like a welding event in here tonight. It’s fairly elegant for us, so it’s pretty unique.”
“It’s a really fun night. Its something different. We’re super proud of our students and very, very appreciative to the community and sponsors in general. It doesn’t happen without them.”