The Pipeline Isn’t a Concept. It’s People.
Back in 2009, Chris Unruh received the Outstanding Student Award at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.
This year, he stood on the other side of that moment as an instructor, watching two of his own students receive the same recognition.
That’s the kind of full-circle story that reminds you what workforce development actually looks like. It’s not a buzzword or a talking point. It’s people investing in the trade, sticking with it, and helping the next generation find their footing.
Last week, Greg Esh presented four awards to students in the Metal Fabrication and Welding Technology programs at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.
These awards recognize students who consistently demonstrated professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to the craft. The kind of qualities that matter long before someone steps onto a jobsite or into a fabrication shop.
And the awards themselves are practical by design.
These aren’t trophies meant to collect dust on a shelf. They’re tools, equipment, and resources students can actually use as they begin their careers. The goal is simple: help them hit the ground running on day one.
Supporting skilled trades has never been about checking a box for us. It’s about recognizing the value of craftsmanship and making sure there’s a path forward for the people willing to put in the work.
Congratulations to all four award recipients.
And thank you to instructors like Chris who chose to stay in the trade, pass along what they’ve learned, and keep the door open for the next generation.
