Student Spotlight: Jennifer Leigh

I was a health care aide for just over 12 years, had no background in anything tool related and am nearly 40 years old, so applying to this course was a huge step for me. I'm from just outside of Minnedosa and have lived here since 1992; I grew up in Brandon prior to that.

My love of horses is what first peaked my interest in welding, but I didn't know anyone who could teach me so I never thought I'd actually have a chance to learn. I raise and show registered miniature horses, although I also rode a fair amount when I was younger. Much of the equipment used for horses, including trailers, feeders, panels and even the cart used to drive the minis, are welded structures and I often wondered how these things were made, how they could be fixed or altered, and thought it would be awesome to be able to do it myself.

I saw the Tuition-Free Welder program advertised and applied. This program was amazing! I understand it runs longer than most pre-employment programs, and I am so happy I had the chance to experience that as it was still a lot to take in.

I enjoyed all of the instructors in the program; Keith Smith helped me achieve the best math marks I've ever gotten, Jason Pascal somehow made online learning enjoyable even if it was a bit of a struggle, Jim McGhie made me feel like I absolutely could do this and would take the time to make sure you understood everything, and Heather Bruederlin encouraged me every step of the way and shared a lot of laughs.

My favourite part of the program would definitely be the end projects. To see a project go from blueprint to finished product and know you accomplished that is an amazing feeling.

I was crazy nervous about the work placement, but the last two months working in the field have been pretty great, and I hope to be able to return to Assiniboine for the next level. I was lucky enough to be offered a full-time position with the company I've been doing my work placement with and plan to continue there after graduation. There is still so much to learn in the field, and I'm excited to see where this new path takes me.

Learn more about our Trades programs or visit assiniboine.net/programs to read more student and staff spotlights.