Socorro County teens forge futures through welding program

In a shop filled with sparks and steel, welding teacher Kenny Gonzales is helping high school students turn raw metal into opportunity. Through a hands-on program at Socorro High School, teens are earning industry certifications that can launch them into well-paying careers, whether they choose college or head straight into the workforce.

Gonzales, who teaches welding and automotive technology, oversees a program that has grown steadily over the past five years. Backed by an Innovation Zone grant, students not only learn technical skills but also earn $15 an hour while working on community projects.

“It’s about giving them options,” Gonzales said. “If they don’t go to college, they still have a skill that can support them.”

The program’s impact is clear. More than 150 students have completed OSHA safety training, which is a lifetime certification, and dozens have gone on to welding schools or automotive programs.

Gonzales estimates 22 former students now work for Arcosa, a windmill tower company, while others have landed jobs locally or advanced to supervisory roles.

“We’ve had five students finish welding college and several more at CNM,” he said.

Students’ work extends beyond the classroom. They’ve built gates for the high school, shade structures for bus stops, and custom metal pieces for the community.

The shop is equipped with CNC plasma cutters and laser engravers, technology Gonzales says prepares students for a changing industry. “Machines can’t run without welders who understand metal and programming,” he said.

The program also partners with New Mexico Tech’s community education initiative, offering evening classes for adults.

Gonzales credits strong support from administrators and the Gear Up program for making these opportunities possible.

“We’re working together to give kids real-world skills,” he said.

For students like those in Gonzales’ shop, there is a pathway to independence and a chance for a future forged in steel.