Pictured is Rachel Christison, GEC Welding graduate. Photo provided.

Press Release

WARSAW — Warsaw Community Schools offers an adult education program with sites in Warsaw and Rochester.

“Whether you are preparing for the high school equivalency exam (HSE), need to improve your skills to be better prepared for college, or somewhere in between, adult education may be just what you need to get your future started on the right track,” said Program Director Steve Ferber.

One of the highlighted programs offered to students enrolled in adult education is the Welding Certificate Program. This is a two-night, 12-week cohort program with 36 hours of weld time and an additional 24 hours of classroom instruction held at Gateway Education Center and Ivy Tech in Warsaw to prepare participants to find successful employment in the growing field of welding. Certified welders are in high demand and can earn a high hourly wage.

Rachel Christison is a current student who is working toward her sheet metal welding certificate located at Lakeview Middle School under the tutelage of certified welder and licensed instructor Jeremiah Paseka. Christison is the first woman to complete the welding program.

“This has been a really positive experience for me,” said Christison, who recently graduated from the recovery home All Things New. “I had sort of been at the bottom, but now things seem to be continuously moving forward with my life. It’s never too late to get back on track! My desire is to go into the trades field. I had been looking into apprenticeships then I came across this welding class and it’s been a really great way to increase my skill set.”

Christison spoke highly of Paseka, the welding instructor.

“Jeremiah has been a really great teacher because I had never welded before and now I’m certified,” said Christison. “This class has been a really positive opportunity for me to stay on the right path and get closer to the career choice that I plan on taking.”

If you or someone you know is interested in this course, the process begins by registering in the adult education program. Qualified applicants must commit to attending the full 12-week course. The next cohort will begin Feb. 1, 2021. Direct questions to Steve Ferber at [email protected] or register online at warsawschools.org/o/gec.