High school welding program celebrates 1st graduating class

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- These young men are the first graduating class of the new welding program at Randolph Career and Technical School.

"It's just an amazing opportunity for my future," said Jose Crespo.

"I just feel blessed to even have the ability and opportunity to be here," said Brian Agosto.

"It was eye opening to understand what welding really was and I appreciate it," said Dymer Christopher.

On Friday, each of them - 11 in total - got their trade certificates showing they are certified in specific areas of welding.

Their families watched on - many with tears in their eyes.

"I'm very proud of him - he's come a very long way," said Andrea Gbemudu, parent.

"By me leaving the industry, knowing the demand was great, I've kinda molded these students into what I knew was needed," said Joe Williams, teacher.

And the demand is clear. Every student in this class is either going to college or already has a job lined up after graduation.

Williams says showing students his trade is his way to giving back. It's something he hopes they will pass on.

"Show a kid 'If you can do this, stay in this program, I will show you how to make $40,000 a year, I will show you how to have benefits, I will show you how to keep yourself busy and give back to the world," said Williams.

For these students, learning how to weld is more than just about getting a job.

"I never thought I'd really have a career out of this," said Christopher.

"Being born and raised in basically the ghetto, it's a great opportunity to get out of it - great opportunity," said Crespo.

"I can strive to become something great and that means anybody from where I come from can become something great," said Agosto.

A chance to become something - the opportunity to follow their dreams.