PDC Welding Students Partner with Livi Steel, Inc. for Structural Steel Project
Flying HIGH Inc.’s Professional Development Center (PDC) welding students are gaining hands-on experience by working on a structural steel fabrication project for Livi Steel, Inc. This exciting partnership provides PDC students with the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world projects, setting them up for successful careers in the skilled trades.
The students are currently working on producing key structural steel components such as columns, beams, angles, and lintels, which will be used in various construction projects, including schools, medical facilities, factories, and warehouses. This collaboration not only benefits the students by allowing them to hone their skills but also supports Livi Steel Inc.’s efforts to maintain a high standard of production.
Tim Hipkins, Lead Welding Instructor at Flying HIGH Inc., shared his pride in his students’ accomplishments on this project.
“I have some of my best students working on this,” said Hipkins. “Their skill level has advanced to the point that they are ready to enter the workforce. They’ve demonstrated proficiency in welding techniques that are critical for this kind of work.”
The students are utilizing advanced welding methods such as Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), both essential techniques for structural steel fabrication.
Ashley Morrow, a representative from Livi Steel Inc., praised the students’ performance and explained the value of their work.
“The incredible work that the PDC students are producing will be utilized in building essential structures across industries. From schools to factories, their contributions are going into some of the most critical infrastructures in our region,” said Morrow. “This kind of ‘outside’ work gives them the chance to apply their skills to real-world projects and eases their transition from students to employees.”
Morrow also emphasized how this collaboration has exceeded expectations.
“All the work previously produced by Flying HIGH Inc.’s PDC students has either met or exceeded our quality expectations and safety standards. We highly recommend partnering with Flying HIGH Inc. if you haven’t already.”
Livi Steel, Inc., a third-generation family-owned structural steel fabricator in Warren, Ohio, is proud to partner with Flying HIGH Inc.’s PDC to help address workforce challenges, particularly in recruiting and upskilling skilled workers.
“The staff and students at Flying HIGH Inc. have been the solution to our employment challenges,” said Morrow. “They consistently produce skilled, safety-conscious individuals ready to enter the workforce.”
This ongoing partnership highlights Flying HIGH Inc.’s commitment to equipping students with practical skills while supporting local industries in the Mahoning Valley. As the students continue to refine their abilities, they are proving that they are not just learning—they are contributing to the future of construction in the region.
