In a field where precision and strength often take center stage, Emma Fredericks, a young professional from Kingston High School who attends the Ulster BOCES welding and metal fabrication program, dared to think outside the box—quite literally. Emma took a bold, non-traditional approach to her entry in the recent SkillsUSA Welding Competition by fusing craftsmanship with creativity.

Rather than crafting a conventional structural piece, Emma chose to follow her passion for art and create a metal masterpiece. She was encouraged to pursue her interest in competing with the art entry by Lauren Litzmann, her welding instructor. Litzmann joined the Career & Technical Center staff in September 2024 and brings expertise in art and sculpture restoration to the classroom. 

Emma’s journey into welding was deeply inspired by her father. “My dad was such a big inspiration for me because I wanted to do what my dad did, and I'm really glad I picked that path. It's definitely dirty work, but it's worth it at the end of the day. As a woman, I think this looks really good on me, and it can inspire other women to do the same. I just feel like it's amazing for a woman to go out of their comfort zone and do this,” she shared.

Though her project didn’t place in the competition, Emma’s courage to take a different path is a victory worth celebrating. Her journey is especially inspiring as a young woman in a traditionally male-dominated trade. Her willingness to break the mold and redefine what welding can be is a testament to her perseverance, innovation, and self-expression. “I’m very grateful that I have the privilege to go to Ulster BOCES and take the welding program. I know it’s a very popular program, and I couldn’t be more thankful to be part of it. Not only is the teacher amazing, but the skills I’m learning here are setting me up for a successful welding career after graduation,” she said.

In an industry where less than 5% of welders are women, she is proving that talent and creativity have no boundaries. It’s fitting that Emma’s story comes to us in February, which is National Career & Technical Education Month. Preparing students with real-world skills, encouraging them to explore their passions, and showing them that career success can take many forms embodies the purpose of National CTE Month and is aligned with the Ulster BOCES North Star Educational Commitments.