Spotlight Program

TXHSWS Spotlight Nominee: Sebastian Uballe

   Sebastian Uballe, a senior at New Caney High School, is a remarkable example of perseverance and dedication. Currently enrolled in Welding II, Sebastian began his welding journey just last year with no prior experience. At the start of his Welding I class, he struggled to even strike an arc using SMAW. However, his determination and work ethic quickly set him apart.

   Each day, Sebastian arrives at class with focus and purpose. He signs in, changes into his welding gear, and gets straight to work. By the end of his first semester, his skills had progressed significantly, allowing him to tackle T-joints with growing confidence. In March of 2024, he attended his first welding event, where his hard work paid off with a certification in 2F.

   Now in his senior year, Sebastian’s persistence and dedication continue to shine. His skills have grown exponentially, evident in his recent accomplishments. He has earned two first-place victories at TSTC Marshall and Arclabs Houston, and he is diligently working on mastering his open root welds. With his drive, it’s almost certain he will earn another certification and secure a top-three finish in his next competition.

   Beyond his welding achievements, Sebastian exemplifies excellence in all aspects of his life. He is a straight-A student and works nearly every night at a local restaurant in New Caney, Texas. Despite his busy schedule, he arrives to class each day with a positive attitude and a polite demeanor.

    Sebastian dreams of becoming a structural steel welder after graduation. With his unwavering dedication, hard work, and natural talent, there is no doubt he will excel in his career and make a significant impact in the welding industry.

   Sebastian Uballe’s story is a testament to the transformative power of hard work and passion, and he truly deserves the recognition of the TXHSWS Spotlight.

TXHSWS Spotlight: Kazdyn Womack

   Meet Kazdyn Womack, a senior at Colorado High School and a dedicated member of the CHS welding team. Over the past four years, Kaz has developed a deep passion for welding, finding both excitement and fulfillment in the craft. 

   At 18 years old, Kaz has already made significant strides in his welding journey. He has qualified for the TXHSWS State Welding Competition and is now focused on reaching Level 3 in the Class B Welder Competition. With a steady hand, grit, and determination, he is pushing himself to achieve this milestone and compete for a Texas State Title.

   Looking ahead, Kaz plans to attend South Plains College to pursue welding or lineman training, preparing for a bright future in the skilled trades. With his dedication and work ethic, there’s no doubt that Kazdyn Womack will continue to make an impact in the welding industry!

Meet Sashaly "Sasha" Davis, a remarkable student in the PMHS Welding program and the focus of this month’s TXHSWS Student Spotlight!

     Sashaly "Sasha" Davis shines as a remarkable young woman with an upbeat spirit and a dedication to everything she takes on. A full-time welding student at PMHS Welding, she’s quick to learn and has risen through the ranks impressively. Her lively personality, combined with a natural ability to lead and support others, makes her a joy to work with.

    Alongside her academic commitments, Sasha works full-time as part of the athletic training staff. She's a familiar face in the summer and fall, spending long hours with the football team, assisting with their workouts and handling essential training responsibilities.

Sasha’s resilience and calmness in high-pressure situations were recently highlighted at a welding competition when she helped a fellow student who suffered a knee dislocation. Despite the challenging scenario, she listened to his guidance and managed to help relocate his knee, allowing him to recover quickly.

    After graduation, Sasha plans to serve her country by enlisting in the U.S. Military, a goal she approaches with pride and purpose. It's been an honor working with her, and with dedicated individuals like Sasha, I'm confident our nation’s future is in capable hands.

Student Spotlight: Ivan Gallegos Garcia

Congratulations to Ivan Gallegos Garcia from Carthage High School for earning his Level 1 Welding Certification through the Texas High School Welding Series (TXHSWS)!

Ivan successfully completed the AWS D9.1 2F SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) qualification — demonstrating precision, skill, and dedication during the Arclabs Regional Certification Event in Houston. His work earned an “Acceptable” rating under official inspection, certifying his welds met industry standards for flat and horizontal fillet welds on mild carbon steel.

This achievement showcases the excellence of our CHS Welding Program, and we’re incredibly proud of Ivan’s hard work and commitment to his craft.

A huge thank you to Ms. Jolene Reeves for her continued support, guidance, and leadership in helping our welding students reach new heights!