Victoria Hay – Ferris State University, Welding Engineering Technology

SCHOLARSHIP AMOUNT

-    Chicago District: $1,500
-    PMA Educational Foundation: $750
-    Total: $2,250

Victoria is a dedicated engineering student and fourth-generation welding professional pursuing a career in welding. Her passion for the trade is rooted in a rich family history. Her great-grandfather worked on projects such as the NASA Apollo program and naval shipbuilding during World War II. Her grandfather was among the first to pass the AWS CWI exam in 1976, and her father continues the tradition as a skilled professional in non-destructive testing. Their dedication and support have instilled in her the values of technical excellence and the importance of education.

She began welding at age 15 and has developed skills in SMAW, GTAW, GMAW and FCAW. Her precision and determination led her to win district and state SkillsUSA welding competitions, advancing to the national level in Georgia in 2022. Currently studying at Ferris State University, Victoria maintains a 3.99 GPA and was honored with the 2024 James F. Lincoln Foundation Division II Gold Award.

Furthering her on-the-job experience, Victoria completed an internship at Janicki Industries, optimizing GTAW groove welds while maintaining quality. She also gained hands-on experience in machine calibration, procedure qualifications and non-destructive testing methods while shadowing her father.

Victoria has demonstrated dedication to the welding industry and also serves as a leader in her academic community. She represents her class in the AWS student chapter, where she has helped build a supportive network for students and women in welding. As class representative, Victoria organizes an annual welding competition that continues to grow in both participation and industry engagement. 

As she continues her preparation for a career in welding, Victoria is guided by the advice of her father and grandfather to "be a sponge." She is excited to carry forward her family's legacy in the welding industry.