Annabelle Betz is paving her path as a student in mechanical engineering, mathematics, and welding. Enrolled in NOVA since last fall, Annabelle has been actively cultivating a passion for welding that began when she was just 13.

Her interest sparked during a visit to her grandfather’s workshop in Colorado. “My grandpa had just gotten a MIG welder and wanted to show me the ropes,” she recalls. “I only welded for about ten minutes, but I thought it was amazing. I had no idea you could join metal like that.” This brief experience set Annabelle on a journey she continues to pursue with enthusiasm.

Starting in her auto tech class at Robinson High School, Annabelle began honing her skills, which she has since taken to new levels. She has completed GTAW/TIG welding (WEL-130) three times, driven by her desire to advance her knowledge. Currently enrolled in GMAW/MIG welding (WEL-160), she plans to take WEL-120 next semester, focusing on MIG and SMAW/stick welding.

Her path has been shaped by influential mentors, particularly Professor Santiago Rivera, head of NOVA’s welding program, who brings over 35 years of experience to the classroom. “He pushes me to do my best and prepares me for what to expect in job interviews, teaching real-world applications and emphasizing the importance of communication and other soft skills,” Annabelle says. “It’s not just about learning to weld—it’s about welding as a career.”

Creativity and problem-solving are central to Annabelle’s approach to welding. Her father encouraged these skills early on, teaching her car maintenance, bathroom tiling, and other hands-on tasks. These abilities are especially useful as she maintains her 1987 truck, which she hopes to work on extensively over winter break. YouTube tutorials have also proven valuable in expanding her practical knowledge.

Annabelle has gained more than just technical skills through her studies. She highlights the importance of patience, positivity, understanding various learning styles, and safety—critical practices such as knowing when to wear gloves and ear protection.

Navigating a male-dominated field has its challenges, but Annabelle found motivation in connecting with other female students. “Friendships with other women in class feel more valuable because there are fewer of us,” she shares.

As a passionate advocate for welding, Annabelle emphasizes its importance and accessibility. “A lot of things are welded—buildings, vehicles, machines. I’ve heard Gen Z called the ‘toolbelt generation.’ Working in trades offers great financial opportunities, and there’s something so relaxing about welding,” she explains.

Annabelle is an enthusiastic supporter of NOVA’s welding program. “I absolutely recommend this program. I love NOVA. The teachers here have been amazing. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am, and I’m happy with where I am.”

In addition to technical skills, Annabelle appreciates the artistic possibilities welding allows. She has crafted unique sculptures, including roses from sheet metal, a deer made entirely from nails, a Nighthawk, and a cat assembled from engine parts. Equipped with both MIG and TIG welders at home, she has the freedom to pursue these creative projects in her spare time.

“If you’re interested in welding, you can succeed,” she advises. “It’s really about what you put into it—you’ll get out what you put in.”

Looking ahead, Annabelle plans to complete an associate degree in engineering, a minor in mathematics, and a career studies certificate in welding techniques at NOVA over the next two years. From there, she aims to transfer to George Mason University and eventually pursue a career as a government contractor.

“Being able to teach at NOVA, in this atmosphere, is a blessing and a dream come true.”

With over 40 years of experience, Santiago Rivera, head of NOVA’s welding department, has been perfecting his craft since he was 15. He joined NOVA as an adjunct professor in 2021. Now a full-time faculty member, he currently leads five classes.

NOVA’s welding program prioritizes hands-on learning, with roughly 85% of class time spent “under the hood” practicing welding techniques. Students also participate in 45 minutes to an hour of lecture and discussion, depending on the number of questions—a balance Santiago considers crucial for mastering the skills involved.

In addition to Santiago, NOVA’s welding department includes a full-time instructor and a newly hired part-time instructor who will teach an introductory pipe welding course on Saturdays starting this spring. Santiago’s goal is to elevate the program, making it a premier resource for both students and the community. “We are a community college. If we help students, we’re helping the community,” he says.

He believes successful students are those who maximize lab time, stay attentive, avoid excuses, and approach challenges with confidence and drive.

One of his early students, Caroline, was recently accepted into the prestigious Norfolk Naval Shipyard Apprenticeship Program. Selected as one of only 43 candidates, she will begin her studies in March. Originally planning to become a dentist, Caroline discovered her passion for welding after taking a summer class.

Another standout, Annabelle Betz, has also caught his attention. “She’s one of my best students. She’s going to do a lot in this industry. She’s going to do great things,” he says.

Santiago’s impact reaches beyond the classroom. Last month, he represented NOVA at the 2024 NSF ATE Principal Investigator’s Conference in Washington, D.C., as the Principal Investigator of the BUILD: Futures in Welding and Fabrication grant, with Fab Lab Coordinator Mary Ratcliff serving as Co-PI.

“The grant will help take the welding program to the next level,” he explains. Planned improvements include advanced courses, enhanced math and materials instruction, field trips, additional instructors, a fabrication model, and an internship program. Next summer, the welding lab is slated for a complete renovation, with the building behind it transforming into a second welding lab to accommodate growing demand.