The participants from New Lucena were eager to learn welding.

Welding is often seen as a profession of sparks and steel, yet beneath the arcs of light lies the power to transform not just metal, but lives. On November 6, 2024, the Basic Welding Skills and Fabrication Training at the New Lucena Polytechnic College became a testament to this transformative power. It was more than a skills workshop—it was an inspiring forge for hope and opportunity.

The day began with prayers and introductions, but what stood out was Ms. Rosanna Constantino’s heartfelt message. Representing SEA, Inc., she shared how initiatives like this are part of their broader IPAT-SIAD program—a roadmap toward inclusive and sustainable development. She emphasized, “Skills are not just tools for work; they are keys to unlocking opportunities.”

Lighting the Torch: Learning the Basics

The spark of enthusiasm was ignited by Mr. Noel Ledesma, the trainer whose expertise brought clarity to a complex craft. His session, which combined theory and practice, was nothing short of illuminating. Participants learned everything from voltage requirements to the art of welding rods, with safety at the forefront.

Mr. Ledesma’s words carried both inspiration and practicality: “Welding isn’t just about connecting metal; it’s about building bridges—between ideas, people, and opportunities.”

Mr. Noel Ledesma as Trainer for Welding.

The hands-on session that followed was where the magic happened. From hesitant first attempts to confident sparks flying, each participant discovered the joy of creating something tangible. By the end of the session, every group had fabricated a functional stove.

Among the participants was a lady from the city who captured the essence of the training. “I want this skill not just for work, but to build something meaningful at home,” she shared. Her determination reflected the spirit of the entire group—proof that progress knows no gender or boundaries.

A Community of Support

Beyond the technical training, the event highlighted the significance of collaboration. The leadership of Mr. Ricco Joseph Seville, the Vocational School Administrator, ensured the smooth organization of this and many other programs requested by SEA, Inc.

The school itself is striving for international standards, and Mr. Ledesma reminded participants of upcoming scholarship opportunities. “Seize these chances,” he urged. “They are stepping stones to a better future.”

Mr. Ledesma is giving his lecture about welding with the participants.

Lessons from the Forge

The success of this training isn’t just in the stoves fabricated but in the confidence and camaraderie built among the participants. It’s a reminder of a timeless truth: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish—or in this case, to weld—and you feed him for a lifetime.”

As the training concluded, a certificate of appreciation was awarded to Mr. Ledesma. But the true reward, as he noted, was in seeing the sparks of excitement and ambition in his trainees’ eyes.

This welding training may have lasted a day, but its impact will resonate for years. It equipped participants with more than skills; it gave them a vision of what they could achieve. In the words of one participant: “Now, I feel ready to create, to build, and to dream.”

Indeed, when sparks fly, they don’t just light the way—they set the stage for brighter tomorrows.