Local Boy Scouts Learn Welding at TCC South Campus

Local boy scouts recently worked toward a merit badge in welding at the Tarrant County College South Campus. Ranging in age from 12 to 18, the scouts spent more than four hours learning about welding from instructor Candace Ortega. “The scouts were amazing,” Ortega said. “Everyone had a good time and learned something new. I see potential welders.”
 
After covering safety with the 11 boys, Ortega trained them in common welding and cutting processes, machine set-up and welding. She also talked about career opportunities and the American Welding Society (AWS).
 
“There was not a boy there who did not have fun,” said Kim Anderson, scoutmaster of Troop 120 in Everman. “There were four or five boys who asked if they could come and weld some more.” Anderson said as a scoutmaster taking the boys to learn and have a new experience is what scouting is all about.
 
The event emerged from strong ties between the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and Lincoln Electric, a leader in the welding supplies field. Lincoln Electric works with Boy Scout troops nationwide to help them earn welding merit badges. Charlie Cross, a welding educator and BSA account manager for Lincoln Electric, contacted Ortega about providing training for the scouts.
 
Scouting Magazine covered the event for an issue to be released this fall.
 
“The college was very supportive of this project, Anderson said. “I would love to work with TCC again.