NAWIC Chapter #341 Gets Hands-On at Hart Career Center

NAWIC Central Missouri Chapter #341 recently hosted an engaging and educational “Women Who Weld” event at Hart Career Center, giving members the opportunity to step into the welding lab and experience the craft firsthand.

The evening began with a brief business meeting, followed by an introduction to welding basics led by experienced instructor DeIla Ray, who has taught welding at the center for several years. DeIla provided an overview of key safety practices and walked the group through important welding terminology and processes, setting everyone up for a safe and successful hands-on experience.

Members were then introduced to three of the most common welding methods—Stick, MIG, and TIG—each offering its own unique advantages and applications. With guidance from DeIla, attendees were able to choose which method they wanted to try, making the experience both personalized and empowering.

Once suited up, each participant had the chance to weld their own design onto a pre-cut metal plate. Creativity was on full display as members crafted plates featuring their names, “NAWIC,” or “#341,” creating lasting mementos of the evening.

Adding to the supportive learning environment, DeIla’s husband, a professional welder, was on hand to provide one-on-one instruction and encouragement, helping ensure each member felt confident and successful in their work.

The event was a fantastic blend of education, hands-on skill-building, and camaraderie, reflecting NAWIC’s mission to empower women in construction and the skilled trades. A special thank you to Hart Career Center and DeIla Ray for making the experience both informative and memorable.