Owen Industries/Paxton & Vierling Steel hosted a day long tour for eight Westside High School Welding Program students.

The students met with several different departments to learn the full process of steel fabrication; from raw material to final product.

Students met with Estimating learning how the project process is started, moving on to Drafting where the customers design is detailed and brought to life and Project Management on the importance of keeping the plan on a specific timeline.

The students toured the PVS Metals Shop where they were educated on stretcher leveling, laser design, CNC punching, tube laser and water jet cutting.

In the Structures Shop the students met with experienced welders discussing girders and welding specifics. They also visited the bridge bay learning about design and construction. The students had the opportunity to meet with staff and discuss issues and ask questions.

The tour was led by President, Tyler Owen, WHS graduate. He discussed the Owen Industries Apprenticeship Program and his personal experiences with welding and working in the steel industry.

It was a great day of education and welding for both staff and students at Owen Industries!