For Tia Harrison, welding is more than a career path; it is a family legacy forged through hard work and determination.
A Family Legacy Sparks a Passion for Welding
Today, Harrison is carving out her own place in the welding industry, proving that women belong in the trades and inspiring others to pursue careers in welding, construction and technical education.
Harrison’s interest in welding began long before she stepped into a college welding shop. Her grandmother, a former heavy equipment operator and boilermaker, introduced her to the trade and demonstrated what was possible through dedication and skill.
When Harrison made the decision to pursue welding professionally, her grandmother passed down a leather jacket, gloves and welding equipment — tools that symbolized more than preparation for the job. They represented trust, encouragement and belief in Harrison’s potential.
“If my grandmother could do it, then so could I,” Harrison said.
That support became the foundation for Harrison’s journey into the skilled trades industry.
Industrial Workers Program Builds a Strong Foundation
After graduating from high school, Harrison enrolled in the Industrial Workers Program (IWP) in Gallup, New Mexico. The 12-week training program introduced students to construction, heavy equipment operation and welding techniques.
Her instructor recognized her potential and encouraged her to continue her education in welding technology. That recommendation ultimately led Harrison to San Juan College, where she made the life-changing decision to move away from home and live on campus while pursuing her welding degree.
For Harrison, the transition represented independence, sacrifice and opportunity.
Hands-On Welding Training Creates Confidence
From her first day in the welding program, Harrison knew she belonged.
The college’s hands-on learning environment immediately matched her learning style. Instead of spending countless hours only reading textbooks, students begin practicing welding techniques early in the program under the guidance of experienced instructors.
“We were doing the work right away,” Harrison explained. “That’s how I learn best.”
The practical training approach helped Harrison quickly build confidence in the welding shop while refining technical skills that employers value in the workforce.
Breaking Barriers for Women in the Skilled Trades
As the first person in her family to attend college, Harrison carries both pride and responsibility. She also understands the challenges that can come with entering a male-dominated field.
Rather than allowing those obstacles to discourage her, Harrison uses them as motivation.
“I am always asking questions, refining my skills and earning respect with my classmates through my work,” she said.
Harrison hopes her story encourages other young women to consider technical careers they may not have previously imagined for themselves.
“Women can do anything they set their minds to,” she said. “I hope that by hearing about my journey, they’ll be willing to take a chance on themselves.”
Scholarship Support Helps Students Succeed
In addition to her hard work in the classroom and welding shop, Harrison received the Metallica All Within My Hands scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in career and technical education programs.
The scholarship has helped cover essential welding equipment and supplies, including boots, a tool bag and a welding hood lens.
“It’s the little things you need every day,” Harrison said. “This scholarship allows me to have what I need to succeed.”
Financial support programs like this can make a major difference for students pursuing skilled trades education, helping reduce barriers and allowing them to focus on building successful careers.
Ready to Start Your Career in Welding?
Explore welding and skilled trades programs at San Juan College and discover how hands-on training can help you build a successful future in the trades. Whether you are beginning your journey or looking to advance your skills, now is the time to invest in a career built to last.
