For DonorsFor Applicants

Weld Our Soul Scholarship

$500
1 winner$500
Open
Application Deadline
Apr 9, 2025
Winners Announced
May 9, 2025
Education Level
High School, Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school or trade school student
Field of Study:
Pursuing welding

Many kids don’t achieve the highest grades or are otherwise underprivileged and challenged when pursuing higher education. 

Kevin was a beloved son who found his passion in welding when he participated in a career training education (CTE) program the summer before he started high school. He was so proud of himself when he brought home the first project he created. The light that sparked his soul was burning so bright when he was welding. In 2022, a week before Kevin was to start his senior year, tragedy struck, and Kevin’s life was cut short. 

This scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Kevin by supporting students who share his passion for welding.

Any high school or trade school student who wants to pursue a career in welding may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

To apply, tell us about you and why you hope for a future in welding.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published May 9, 2024
Essay Topic

Tell us about you and why you see a future in welding.

400–600 words

Winning Application

Brandon Kolic
Vernon CollegeSEYMOUR, TX
Words always looked funny to me and I was always misunderstood, even in my own family. I did not learn I had dyslexia until the fifth grade in which I was already considered "developmentally delayed". I never liked that label. Everyday when I showed up to school I would put my best foot forward, but my grades never reflected my goals. I set myself up to the higher standard of what I could accomplish being the typical A/B Honor Roll student. I knew I could never achieve straight A's, but I sure did try my best! Back in 2021, after COVID started, my parents decided to move the family from the big city to a small rural town. I was in my Freshman year and it was terrifying to make that adjustment because I did not know anybody. School became even more difficult as I was constantly bullied for my weight and how introverted I was. They called me names, yet they did not know a single thing about me. A month living in Seymour felt like a thousand years, then my aunt died. My parents took in her three kids - making the family count go from 6 to 9. My dad still lives in Arlington because of the family business so I frequently have to step into the older brother role by taking care of my siblings as my mom attends to the littles (the youngest has cerebral palsy, the middle has autism, and the oldest has ADHD) by taking them to their medication evaluations and therapy appointments. Welding became my safe space and passion as it is the one thing I understand that I can also emotionally escape into. I feel confident in myself when I read or make blueprints for a project, and get excited putting on my helmet to see what I can do. I am not labeled "developmentally delayed", it is acceptable to be an introvert, and I get to make a name for myself based on my work. Last year I made a rocket stove for the local stockshow; it was the first time one of my family members came to one of my events and they were beyond proud of me. It made me feel like a success for once and not compared to the other kids. Welding allows me to be me. If I were to get a scholarship, it would help me achieve my dreams of being a welder, but also help with the financial burden of how expensive college is. Both of my older sisters went to college in which I learned a thing or two from them on what not to do! I go to work at least five days out of the week after school, sometimes seven, however I go to work to put money aside to accomplish my dreams. I am putting myself through college, and the only financial assistance I am receiving is from FAFSA. My parents are kind enough to let me take a loan out of their name if needed, but I know they need the money more than me for the three younger kids for the medications and appointments. Welding is my dream and I cannot wait to begin my journey regardless of what people say as I know I have my families support and they believe in me.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 9, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 9, 2025.