Future Farmers of America isn’t just about agriculture, it’s about learning real-world skills, building confidence, and preparing for the future.
In our programs such as Welding and Woodshop, students are discovering the value of hard work, teamwork, and craftsmanship. These hands-on classes reflect our school’s values of Respect, Integrity, and Determination, showing how these programs help students grow both in and out of the classroom.
Inside the Ag Mechanics shop, students learn how to weld, cut, and shape metal. For many students, the welding program is more than just an elective, it’s a place to build skills that can be used later in life.
Luke Borelli (10) shared, “I’ve been welding since I was a little kid, so it’s something I’ve grown up around and always enjoyed doing.” He said the best part is taking separate pieces of metal and turning them into something that works. “It’s fun to see it all come together,” he added.
Brian Tovar (12), who has been welding for three years, said being part of the program has helped him grow as a leader. “These past two months have been great,” he said. “As a TA for Mr. Borelli, I get to help other students with their welds and techniques. It’s made me more confident and patient.” Tovar also shared that he enjoys figuring out the perfect temperature for each type of metal and teaching others what he’s learned.
For Andrew Goins (10), welding became a passion after seeing an Ag Mechanics presentation at Creekside. “My favorite part is when you’re going nice and slow and the weld comes out perfect,” he said. Although gas welding was difficult at first, he explained that the challenge made him more determined to get better.
Miranda Navarrete (10) connects welding to her dream career. “I want to become an astronaut, and welding is an important skill for that,” she said. “These past two months have been great. I’ve learned to bend metal, cold cut, and gas weld more efficiently.” Navarrete also helps with class projects for the fair and Ag Booster events, learning teamwork and leadership along the way.
Next door in the woodshop, students are learning to measure, cut, and create wood projects safely and precisely. Ximena Cardenas (9) said, “My favorite part about Woodshop is that we get to do things on our own.” She’s learned how to use tools like the planer saw and nail gun, building both skill and confidence.
Olivia Magaña (9) said that patience has been her biggest lesson. “I learned I need to take my time, and when I did, it came out amazing,” she said. She’s currently working on a fair project and enjoys using the panel saw to shape her designs.
Both welding and woodshop teach students to respect their craft and peers, to gain responsibility regarding safety and quality work, and resilience when challenges arise. The students are ready to show off their projects for the upcoming May Day Fair.
