Welding is something Devon Sclossher of Thorold hopes to pursue long after graduating high school.

Teachers of Thorold Secondary School have recognized the Grade 12 student for his excellence in the school's welding program.

As a result, Sclossher was asked by manufacturing and welding teacher Michael Lachance to speak at a recent Canadian Welding Association (CWA) event held in April.

Along with two other high school students and three college students, Sclossher entertained the CWA with his experience in the high school welding program.

Lachance said the CWA has played a large role in the school's welding program throughout the years by providing them with tools and supplies for the students to use. "They've been fantastic to us. When I started teaching here we only had three welding helmets and now we have more than 20 thanks to the CWA."

Sclossher received a $100 gift certificate to Canadian Tire as well as a welding helmet for his speech at the CWA event and Lachance added Sclossher was chosen to win the CWA Excellence in Welding award with a prize of $100.

"Sclossher is just an excellent student. He has progressively excelled over the years as a fantastic student in the welding program."

Sclossher is also enrolled in the Thorold Secondary School's Specialist High Skills Major, a program dedicated specifically to students who plan to work in the trade industry after graduating from high school.

Sclossher said, "To be recognized by my teachers is something that feels great because I've changed my mind about my future so many times. Welding is something I have an act and a passion for."

He said his speech to the CWA was about his personal journey throughout his welding education. He said when he was a Grade 9 student he knew nothing about welding but has since then grown to love it.

"I've had so much support from my teachers who have helped direct my future."

Sclossher said he enjoys the skills that welding has given him. "I love the hand-eye coordination and patience welding requires."

In the fall Sclossher will be attending the welding program at Niagara College. "I am very excited about my future and can't wait to learn more about welding."

He said in the future he hopes to be able to teach welding at a high school.