Olivia Arreola is a welder today because she had a point to prove. When she was a junior at Wautoma High School, she casually mentioned to some classmates that she was thinking about taking a welding class. They didn’t think she could make it in the male-driven industry. Their doubt only motivated her more. “At that point I told myself, ‘you know what? Now I have to do it," she explains. And she did.
Now 21 years old, Olivia has made it clear: she’s a welder through and through. She has earned medals from regional, state and national competitions, an associate degree in Industrial Welding Technology and a full-time job that she loves at Miller Electric in Appleton.
She also has her sights set on a bachelor’s degree in Welding Engineering Technology. In Fall 2022, Olivia plans to attend Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, where she’ll start as a junior. “I want to be a welding engineer,” she says, “and challenge myself to be more innovative and create products that help people.”
While Olivia waits to start the next phase of her education, she’s enjoying her current job as a Welding Technician at Miller. She also volunteers her time through welding-related events with area youth groups.
“I had a great experience at Fox Valley Tech. Everyone was so encouraging,” she says. “I’ve had so many supportive people throughout my journey. I want to be that person for someone.”
Visit the Fox Valley Technical College website for more information>>