CHSWelding

04/20/2026

Last Thursday night at our CTE Awards Banquet, two of my welding students were honored with awards, and moments like this remind me exactly why I do what I do.

These two young men have both faced challenges and obstacles in life that could have easily held them back, but instead they chose to keep pushing forward. I’ve had the privilege of watching them grow not only as welders, but as young men with determination, grit, and heart.

Seeing them overcome adversity, stay committed to their goals, and now take the next step into the Ironworkers Union apprenticeship makes me incredibly proud. Their journey hasn’t always been easy, but they have earned every bit of this success through hard work and perseverance.

I truly believe they both have bright futures ahead and will go on to build successful careers in the trades. Proud doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel.

This is what CTE is all about — changing lives and creating opportunities.

04/17/2026

03/20/2026

Two solid days of hands-on learning for these students. 💪🔥

We had the opportunity to spend time with the Ironworkers Union, working alongside their apprentices and getting a real look at the trade, the expectations, and the skill it takes to succeed at the next level.

Back in the shop, students continued putting in the work—laying out and cutting pipe using the oxy-acetylene torch. Precision, patience, and practice… and they’re getting better every day.

Proud of the effort, the attitude, and the way these students represent our program. The future of the trades is in good hands. 👊

02/22/2026

This is an event you won't want to miss! To guarantee adequate food, please RSVP by commenting or emailing. We hope to see you there!

02/13/2026

Few students few students have been making valentines gifts. This one was great!

02/08/2026

I want to give a huge shoutout to a welding student About a month ago, Coy was in a serious wreck and had to be airlifted to the hospital. He was originally set to compete in yesterday’s welding competition, but recovery kept him from the booth.

Instead of staying home, he showed up. He supported every student from every school and worked the event the entire day.

That’s what leadership looks like. Character over trophies. I have no doubt he’ll be back, stronger than ever, competing in the next one. We gave Coy that helmet yesterday incase he tries to play a crash dummy again 😆

02/08/2026

Yesterday’s 2nd Annual CHS Welding Competition was a huge success. Proud of every contestant who stepped up and put their skills to the test. Big thank you to all the volunteers who made this event run smoothly and to our community partners who donated door prizes and awards.
🥇 1st Place: Bledsoe County
🥈🥉 2nd–3rd Place: Sequatchie County
🏅 4th Place: Cleveland
The future of the welding trade is strong.

12/24/2025

🎄 Merry Christmas from CHS Welding! 🎄
From our student leaders and your welding instructor, Mr. Ritchie, thank you to our students, families, and community for an incredible year. Enjoy the break, stay safe, and we’ll be back ready to weld in the new year 🔥

07/23/2025

The grant will help upgrade equipment, expand certification options, and provide more hands-on welding experience.