Julia Poole of Delmar, Md

Julia Poole of Delmar, Md., had read about the free welding training from the Wor-Wic course schedules she received in the mail. One day, she was telling a friend he should sign up for the training when she thought, “Why don’t I apply for this?”

At the time, she was working in a liquor store for just above minimum wage. “I knew I liked to work with my hands,” Poole said. “And I had thought about trying out the trades.”

Poole had taken some credit and non-credit classes at Wor-Wic right out of high school, trying to determine what she wanted to do for a living.

“At the graduation ceremony for the welding course, Delaware Elevator was there, accepting applications for employment. I took the math skills test and filled out an application right there,” Poole said. “They called me a few weeks later. Two of my classmates also got hired by them.”

Poole said the welding course was great because there was a real family mentality to it – everyone was supporting each other with the same goal in mind. “I also enjoyed the fact that it was 25% classroom, 75% welding. I would rather be doing something, not just sitting the whole time. The instructor gave us the freedom to try things and to learn from our mistakes. It was a great experience for me.”

While in the welding course, Poole learned about the free metal fabrication course being offered. She applied for that and was able to attend at night, after working her new fulltime job during the day. “It improved my skills. I learned how to use more tools and how to read blueprints. I didn’t realize how diverse the industry is.

“At a craft show I attended recently, I met a blacksmith and I connected with him. Now, I’m going to learn how to forge metal. It’s way more interesting than I ever thought it would be. I see myself staying in the field and continuing to learn.”

Poole was able to take both courses for free due to funding by grants from the Maryland Department of Labor and the Maryland Energy Administration. “All I had to buy was tools. I feel very fortunate that these programs were available. I held myself to a high standard knowing that the goal for Maryland is to produce employees, so I’m happy I’m fulfilling that role.”

For more information on welding or metal fabrication, call 410-334-2815.