Welding has long been considered a skilled trade for men, but a young woman from Scottsburg is challenging that trend. Ivy Tech student Cheyenne Holman sees opportunity in what many might find intimidating.
The only woman enrolled in Introduction to Welding at Ivy Tech in Columbus, some of Cheyenne’s friends questioned why she chose the elective. But Cheyenne is learning what she knows will be a valuable skill. She is pursuing an associate degree in applied science and agriculture, and she says welding will set her apart when she graduates this December.
“It’s the little things that will give you more options,” said Cheyenne. “The experience has given me more confidence.”
Cheyenne has always had an interest in welding, so some of her male friends encouraged her to enroll in the introductory class. Now, she’s looking into the 40-week program at the Ivy Tech Welding Institute at MASPark to earn a technical certificate in industrial technology. Holding two degrees, she says, will help her find a rewarding job in agriculture.
“Having welding experience will allow me to work on machinery,” said Cheyenne. “I’ll be able to handle quick fixes or patch up holes on equipment like gravity wagons to keep things running.”
Cheyenne grew up on a corn and soybean farm in Scott County, and she hopes to stay in Southern Indiana when she graduates. She is a graduate of Scottsburg High School.
