Tilden Cross discovered welding during a couple of high school classes, and quickly realized he enjoyed the hands-on work and the challenge of welding. That’s also when he learned about the high demand for skilled welders, and he decided it was the career he would pursue.

In the spring of 2015, at 21, Cross was set to secure that chosen career, and the Kentucky Career Center – Lincoln Trail was there to help. With tuition assistance available through the career center, Cross is working toward an associate’s of applied science in welding technology at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College.

In addition, he’s already landed full-time employment with Hendrickson, a manufacturer of suspension systems and components for heavy-duty vehicles in Elizabethtown and part of Kentucky’s thriving automotive industry.

“The career center staff was more than willing to work with me one-on-one to build the interviewing skills that helped me get the job,” Cross said. “My goal was to find a stable, permanent job in welding, and that’s happening.”

Nearing the completion of his degree, Cross is on a promising career path with skills that are in high demand. Welding offers wages among the highest of the skilled trades.

He recommended that anyone entering the job market take advantage of the services available at Kentucky Career Center – Lincoln Trail.

“They can help you get on your feet enough for you to get out there and find the right job in the right field,” he said.

For information about job seeker services, contact the Kentucky Career Center - Lincoln Trail.