(HARLINGEN, Texas) – What began as a fascination with flying sparks at La Joya High School has evolved into a pursuit of technical mastery for Texas State Technical College Welding student Isaias Pena, of La Joya.
“I thought welding looked interesting when I was in high school,” he said.
For Pena, a second-semester student at TSTC’s Harlingen campus, the work required in the welding booth is met with the challenge of a rare genetic muscle disorder he has lived with since birth. Despite physical hurdles that require him to use a wheelchair, he refuses to let his condition prevent him from ensuring his welds meet industry standards.
“I power through it because I want to become a great welder,” he said.
Pena’s foundation was built over four years at his former high school, where his teachers encouraged him to excel in the trade. His introduction to the Welding program came by way of SkillsUSA competitions held at the Harlingen campus, where the facilities and faculty expertise convinced him that TSTC was the right choice.
“I liked the resources their program offered,” he said.
After adjusting to the college’s performance-based education model, Pena transitioned into more advanced welding angles and fabrication. He admitted that cutting materials at correct angles presented a learning curve, but he embraced the challenge.
“Overhead and vertical welding were challenging at first, but I got better at it,” he said.
Juan Avila, an instructor in the Welding program, said Pena’s determination is evident in the lab.
“What is impressive about Isaias’ work ethic is his consistency, drive and willingness to put in the effort needed to improve,” he said.
Pena is determined to reach a milestone after graduating from TSTC.
“After I gain field experience, I want to earn my license to become a certified welding inspector,” he said.
According to onetonline.org, welders, cutters, solderers and brazers earn a yearly median salary of $49,830 in Texas. The number of these jobs in the state was expected to increase by 11% between 2022 and 2032, according to the website.
Registration for the summer and fall semesters is now underway at TSTC. For more information, visit TSTC.edu.