Valencia College’s welding technology students are competing in the statewide America 250 Welding and Fabrication Challenge, which is sponsored, by the Florida Department of Education, to honor the nation’s metalworking history.
Valencia’s submission features a cutout map of the United States of America adorned by the stars and stripes of the American flag. The students welded symbols of America representing its diverse regions onto the cutout.
“The Stars, Striped, & Steel: An America Mosaic” finished product presents: a space shuttle over Florida, representing boundless ambition; the Empire State Building over New York symbolizing vision and endurance; a motorcycle in California promoting ingenuity and performance; a barbecue grill in Texas reflecting celebration, joy and unity; and an American eagle in the Pacific Northwest, soaring as a beacon of freedom.
The piece is complete with an intentionally weathered American flag, reminding us that unity and perseverance are our nation’s greatest strengths.
“I think it came out great,” said welding technology student James Wainwright. “We tried to capture what we think America is, from the East Coast to the West Coast, from the South to the North. It was fun.”
“Giving this opportunity to the welding students demonstrates what we do,” said Brendon Monize, assistant director of Advanced Manufacturing at Valencia College. “We think of welding as just a trade,but really it’s the fabric and foundation of what we do as Americans.”
Welding instructors Juan Ayala and Eddie Pollock and carpentry instructor Mike Hill guided the students through the project’s completion.
After the competition, the piece will find a permanent home on Valencia’s campus.
Welding programs throughout the state have been invited to submit one entry — metal artwork, plaque or sculpture — inspired by the anniversary theme. Florida’s Commissioner of Education Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas will select the winning entries.