Read about Timothy’s journey back to school to receive the certifications necessary to advance his pipe welding career and how Mia Share facilitated his financing at Western Welding Academy.
WHAT DID YOU DO PRIOR TO WESTERN WELDING ACADEMY?
I worked in the industry for factories for three years, and before that, I was actually a licensed DLT server service technician for a heavy oil company. My three previous jobs were in welding and I knew from early on it would be my career.
WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO ATTEND A TRADE SCHOOL?
The last factory I worked in placed me in their drilling division. There, I started welding pipe and I wanted to further my career in pipe welding. It taught me so much about the Pipe Trades, and learn advanced techniques from experts in the industry. It helped me gather the certifications I needed to advance my career.
HOW DID MIA SHARE FACILITATE THE TRADE SCHOOL PROCESS?
I heard about Mia Share through the school’s administration. Your tuition plans offered better rates and were in line with my financial needs. It’s been a great experience with Mia Share, so far. I get regular notifications about payments.
“I went into their office looking for financial assistance, as it was necessary to start my certifications. It [Mia Share] seemed like an easy enough process and I got my response very quickly.”
HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY DIFFERENCES IN THE FIELD SINCE RECEIVING YOUR CERTIFICATIONS?
Due to my age, I haven’t noticed a big difference. I’m turning 25 and compared to some of the younger guys, I have more credentials and experience. I’ve been in the trade for about 8 years now, started right out of high school. I wouldn’t have been able to work on my current job if it weren’t for my years in the field. Most jobs require at least 5 years. The biggest difference I’ve noticed has been the pay rate of the projects I’m working on. I used to make $1,600 bi-weekly and now I can earn anywhere between $3,000- $4,500 a week.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS PURSUING A HIGHER EDUCATION?
The best thing you can do is network. If you don’t throw your name out there or collect phone numbers, you’ll never get ahead. The biggest thing in this trade is to be well-liked without bringing too much of yourself into the project. You don’t have to be friends with people, but do your best work and people will recommend your work. Don’t overtalk and don’t get too arrogant early on.