Student Spotlight: Ian Paulson

Student Spotlight: Ian Paulson

| By: Haase, Elijah D

Career Program: Industrial Welding Technology
Current Residence: Appleton
Age: 19
Attended FVTC: Fall 2020 - Current

Why did you choose the Industrial Welding Technology career program?

Ever since I was little I knew I wanted to do something around a machine shop. I was never really sure which position I would want to pursue until the day that I saw the way welders made sparks fly. At that moment I was instantly hooked.

What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?

I find it really interesting how there are so many different types and forms of welding. Each kind has its own strengths and weaknesses for the task they are needed for. I am also learning about how much I enjoy running the laser cutter, which is giving me more ideas for when I graduate.

Why did you choose Fox Valley Technical College?

I was never sure where I wanted to go to college until a representative from Fox Valley Tech came to my high school. They explained all the career paths to us and then invited us for a tour where I was able to really see how much the Tech had to offer with their welding facilities. After the tour, I knew it was the place for me.

How has Fox Valley Technical College helped you change your life?

From welding inspector to underwater welding, FVTC has exposed me to many career paths in the welding program. It’s also shown me what else I enjoy about machining, like hardness testing and laser cutting.

What type of job do you expect to find after graduation? 

After I graduate, I hope to find a job in welding of course, but I also plan to look for jobs in laser cutting. I had a lot of fun these last couple of years figuring out how the laser works.

In one sentence, what's your best advice for someone who's not sure they're ready for college?

College seems a lot scarier as a whole until you jump in and realize you're doing what you enjoy, surrounded by strangers-turned-friends who enjoy it just as much.


Pro Tips

Best on-campus place to study: Cafeteria for comments from the peanut gallery, Library for peace.

One class you surprisingly enjoyed: Manufacturing processes

One class that challenged you: Pipe welding

One thing every FVTC student must experience on campus before graduating: Playing pool in Student Life

Pro-tip for newcomers trying to find their way around campus: I actually still struggle to find my way around campus. Luckily there’s a classroom map on the website - you can thank me later.

Upcoming Events

Nov
28

College Closed for Thanksgiving Break

College Closed for Thanksgiving Break

Dec
2

Textbooks Available for Purchase - Winterim & Spring

Textbooks Available for Purchase - Winterim & Spring

Dec
2

Veterinary Technician Internship Job Fair - Appleton

Connecting students and employers at Fox Valley Tech's Appleton campus.

Dec
13

Winter Commencement Ceremony

Congratulations, graduates!

Dec
16

Textbook Buyback & Rental Returns

Textbook Buyback & Rental Returns

Dec
19

Adult Preview Day - Appleton

Looking for a career change? Want to refresh a skill or topic? Ready for a change? Visit the FVTC Admissions Specialist team for a one-on-one opportunity to discuss your options to get started.

@FOXVALLEYTECH ON INSTAGRAM


Join Our Email List

Subscribe Today

Your information will remain private. FVTC will never share our email lists. See FVTC's privacy policy.

Student & Alumni Spotlight

Student Spotlight: Cole Henke

Student Spotlight: Cole Henke

Cole chose to pursue a career in firefighting because it offers a dynamic environment, with new challenges and varied experiences each day.
Student Spotlight: Sydney Lyons

Student Spotlight: Sydney Lyons

For Syndey one of the most rewarding aspects of Early Childhood Education is the ability to make a difference in the lives of children.

Student Spotlight: Stazy Szymanski

Student Spotlight: Stazy Szymanski

Stazy chose FVTC because she appreciates the opportunity to earn her degree in just two years, all while benefiting from personalized,...
Student Spotlight: Noel Whiting

Student Spotlight: Noel Whiting

Noel chose the Marketing Program because the field is always changing, so there's always something new to learn and explore.

Student Spotlight: Andrea Brunner

Student Spotlight: Andrea Brunner

Andrea Brunner chose FVTC because the campus offers a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds and provides a wide range of...
Student Spotlight: Rhiannon Gauerke

Student Spotlight: Rhiannon Gauerke

Rhiannon chose the accounting program at FVTC because she views accountants as the nurses of finances in businesses and she has a love for...
Alumni Spotlight: Q&A with Joe Lauer

Alumni Spotlight: Q&A with Joe Lauer

Employees are the key component of any business and Joe Lauer wants to make sure they return home safely to their families every day. Joe explains...