Senior Taylor Alvarez found his calling in the Oasis Academy College Prep welding classes. For the dual enrollment classes the senior has earned both high school and college credit. He has not only received credit but also tested and received nationally and industry recognized welding certifications through the American Welding Society.
âGetting that first welding certificate is my favorite memory from my time at Oasis,â said Alvarez.
âMy time in the welding program has helped me get a head start on my career. I started up my own mobile welding business when I turned sixteen and continue to spend my time outside of class doing independent welding work.â
âI would like to thank Jorgen âJeppâ Jeppesen, Western Nevada College welding instructor, for his support. He has believed in me and helped me believe in myself to be successful and make a class into a career,â added Alvarez.
Alvarez started at Oasis Academy when the school opened as a first grader in 2011, he will graduate in May having earned his 1g (flat structural welding) welding certification, his high school diploma, and an Associate of Applied Science in Welding Degree from Western Nevada College. He will also test for his 6g (pipe welding) certification later this year.
âBuckle down on school because you only have so many second chances. Also, itâs ok to put yourself before others. Youâre almost eighteen, so donât get caught up with bad people,â was Alvarezâs advice for future students.
After graduation he plans to pursue his own welding business and continue to work as a mobile welder.