Ryan Gilbert, KACC Welding Alumn Returns
Ryan Gilbert graduated Momence High School and the Kankakee Area Career Center's Welding Program in 2004. When he was a student here, Ryan was Student of the Year for the Welding Program. This is quite an honor as only one student is chosen from each program based on teacher recommendation. Ryan was also able, as a senior in high school, to go out into the business community and do a welding internship while in high school, adding that real-world experience to his curriculum.
Ryan has taken his welding education and put it to good use in his career with Envirofab, located in Cedar Lake, Indiana. He continues welding, mostly stainless steel pipe in a variety of diameters and positions. Ryan travels all over the country on behalf of Envrifab to complete various welding jobs.
Ryan spoke with Mr. Spangler's current crop of welding students and shared stories of his work experience and his believe that KACC helped motivate him and was a very good place to go to school to learn his craft. He encouraged the students to "come in here every day and apply yourself."
Mr. Spangler stated he is always thrilled when students return to share their stories of success. "It is a great way to confirm the value of career and technical education when our alumni return," said Spangler. "They are always welcome to stop back in and visit my classroom."