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LBW Community College welding instructor Scott Cooper was recently awarded with the American Welding Society’s District 9 Educator Award for his devotion to the growing program at the MacArthur campus.

Cooper was first notified last summer about the American Welding Society’s awards.

“For the AWS to notice what I do is a special award. It’s exciting to know what we do at LBW is noticed on the big stage. Being able to teach a skilled trade to a student who can earn a good living and travel opportunity is a special feeling. Having former students contact you and say how much success they have had and just saying thank you is awesome,” he said.

He first became interested in welding several years ago and received his first teaching position at LBWCC in 2010 as an adjunct instructor helping David Brawner.

“I graduated from Red Level on Friday night in 1980 and was working in construction the next Monday morning at Farley Nuclear Plant. I had my first welding job in 1981 and loved working with my hands, meeting new friends, and of course making money. I really enjoy when students pass a welding process, and I’m able to see the look on their faces and the feeling of accomplishment they have for themselves. Without the support of our administration, we would not be where our program is today.”

For him, his parents have been the most influential people in his welding career. “They taught me how to work and always do your best at whatever you do and give respect to others.”

According to Cooper, the welding program at MacArthur has continued to grow each year with a 21 percent growth from last spring to this spring. There will always be a need for welders as the demand continues to grow each year.

While he enjoys all aspects of teaching welding, theory, and trying to create a good work ethic, safety is always the top priority.

“We try to get them used to their PPE (personal protective equipment) and also offer OSHA 10 construction credentials through a 10-hour course and a nationally recognized credential,” Cooper said.

For more information visit lbwcc.edu/programs/career-technical-programs/welding, email scooper@lbwcc.edu, or call 334-493-5356.