Evan Gifford wants to do everything. From building skyscrapers to creating stainless steel containers for food production, this PCS senior intends to turn welding into his life’s passion. It’s the challenge that draws Evan to the trade and makes him excited about his future career.
“I tend to get bored. With welding, there’s infinite things to do. Everything needs welding,” he said.
In March, Evan faced another challenge when he competed at the American Welding Society (AWS) Regional Welding competition, held at Rochester Arc + Flame Center. This competition highlights the best scholastic welders from the region, including students from Genesee Valley BOCES, Monroe BOCES, and Wayne Finger-Lakes BOCES. Despite being his first competition, Evan placed third and earned a $200 award, along with several tools. Competitors first had to take a written exam, and then their practical skills were tested. He advances to the AWS state competition on May 2-3.
“I thought the competition was difficult but fun. It put my skills to the test,” said Evan.
Students aren’t notified of what skills will be tested at the competition, making preparation beforehand more difficult. Evan spent several months working on his welding skills as a student in the Genesee Valley BOCES Metal Trades program at the Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center. It’s his second year in the program under the guidance of teachers Jeff Swift and Alan Schwartz, and teaching assistant Kerry Thompson.
“Evan’s drive is evident in his determination to achieve his goals,” said Swift. “He is constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills. He is also a strong advocate for the welding program, promoting it to other students. Evan’s leadership and drive make him a valuable asset to Perry High School, our BOCES welding program, and a strong role model for his fellow students. Evan is an exemplary human being. He is kind, generous and fearlessly loyal. I am certain Evan will have the biggest successes ahead of him and we will continue to be proud of him for years to come.”
As a sophomore, Evan toured the Mount Morris Career and Technical Education Center intending to enroll in the Culinary Arts program. That was until he visited the Metal Trades shop.
“I thought to myself ‘This is pretty cool,’” said Evan. “I liked the atmosphere the teachers created, and the work that I saw was awesome. From there, everything fell into place.”
Evan’s future is also falling into place. He will attend Alfred State College in the fall to continue honing his welding skills. The student-athlete is looking forward to the outdoor track and field season and competing in shotput and discus events. At BOCES, he’s preparing for the AWS state competition, while also finishing a 3D life-size swordfish project.
“I never thought I’d end up in a trade instead of working in computers, but I like working with my hands and challenging my mind and welding fits both.”