Hannah Dow welds a spider web creation in class at Blue River Career Programs. | submitted
Shelbyville High School senior Hannah Dow never expected welding to become the thing that “totally changed” her life. But after touring Blue River Career Programs as a freshman, she was drawn to the welding lab, first by curiosity, and later by a sense of belonging she didn’t anticipate in a male-dominated field.
“I thought about veterinary work, but once I saw how much opportunity there is in welding, and how naturally it came to me, I just went for it,” Dow said.
Two years into the program, she will soon hold two welding certifications, has lined up an internship with an Indianapolis-area company and is preparing to enter the field immediately after graduation.
“Last year, one of our students went straight into the union in Indy with his certifications,” she said. “That’s one of the best parts; there are so many opportunities.”
But for Dow, the biggest surprise was the welding community itself.
“Even though it’s mostly men, everyone feels like brothers to me,” she said. “They’re all so kind, and my teacher, Mr. (Dalton) Bousun, has done so much for me. He’s put my name out there and really supports his students.”
Dow’s creativity shows in one of her favorite recent projects: a hand-cut spider web design carved into a steel barrel using BRCP’s new CNC cutter. The finished piece is in line with a similar Halloween-themed creation previously on display at her coffee-shop employer.
Most students created pumpkin-themed designs on the barrels, Dow said, but she wanted something more artistic. “I’ve always loved art. So for Halloween, I thought, why not a spider web? I’d never cut one before, so I looked up some designs and just went for it.”
The project took about three days from sketch to finish. “That CNC cutter is amazing; it’s like drawing on metal,” she said.
And she’s already planning her next competition piece: an intricate metal bonsai tree for SkillsUSA.
As a young woman entering the trades, Dow understands she’s challenging expectations.
“Welding isn’t easy. There’s so much that goes into it: materials, machines, gases, settings. But you’re literally building the future. There are welds in every building you walk into.”
And as a senior, Dow now gets a chance to mentor others.
During a recent freshman tour, she was excited to see a group of six girls interested in welding. She offered them the same advice she’s followed: “Don’t be afraid.”
“Even if you think you won’t fit in, push yourself,” she said. “This field needs people, and you’ll meet amazing people.”
Welding, Dow said, has given her direction and confidence.
“Before this, I had no clue what I was going to do. Now I feel like I’m going somewhere.”