TSTC graduate Justin Friend and Chancellor Michael L. Reeser present Governor Greg Abbott with a personalized welding helmet and heat-resistant gloves at TSTC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.
The last few months have been a whirlwind for Justin Friend. The TSTC Welding graduate was featured in a Wall Street Journal article, got a shout out from Gov. Greg Abbott in the state of the state address and was called on to surprise Abbott at TSTC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, presenting him with a one-of-a-kind welding helmet marking the occasion. The attention has made Friend, who earned $140,000 in 2014, the face of the case for technical education in Texas.
“This experience has been great,” said Friend. “I want to inspire future generations to go to technical college and fill the need for skilled workers.”
Abbott stressed the need for skilled workers as well. His remarks reflected those of his state of the state address: “For many, a two-year degree is far more than a piece of paper. It’s a key that opens the door to economic freedom. As just one recent example: Justin Friend attended Texas State Technical College in Waco and received a two-year degree in welding. In 2013 – his first full year as a welder – his income was about $130,000. Last year, the 24-year-old’s income rose to about $140,000. I’m thinking if this Governor thing doesn’t work out, I’m going to TSTC to get a welder’s certificate.”
Well, now he’s got the credentials to do it. TSTC Chancellor Michael L. Reeser presented the Governor with an honorary TSTC welding degree, and Friend was on-hand to present a personalized Texas welding helmet and heat-resistant gloves to the governor.
“I’ve got to tell you I could use those in my current job,” joked Abbott. The room erupted with laughter.
“I will proudly display my honorary welding degree in my office. With my very own welding gloves and helmet now I’m really ready to get to work,” said Abbott. “TSTC graduates like Justin Friend are proof that in Texas, and with a degree from TSTC, anyone can achieve anything if they are willing to work hard and dream big.”