Lorain County JVS

 Welding Towards a Brighter Future: Alayah Nelson’s second chance through LCJVS Adult Diploma Welding Program
 

Alayah Nelson proudly stood before the Lorain County JVS Board of Education Thursday night, not only as a recent graduate of the Adult Diploma Welding/Fabrication Program at Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center, but as living proof of what’s possible when education is accessible, inclusive, and rooted in real opportunity.

When she first walked through the doors at Lorain County JVS, she was searching for more than a diploma or a trade. Holding years of uncertainty, missed chances, and a quiet hope that maybe — just maybe — this time would be different.

And it was.

“This program didn’t just teach me how to weld. It taught me how to believe in myself again,” shared Nelson. “It gave me structure, guidance, and most importantly, a second chance. For many of us who return to school as adults, the journey isn’t easy. We juggle work, families, financial stress, and the weight of past regrets. But when you step into a classroom that respects your story and sees you not as an unfinished student, but as a whole person with untapped potential — everything changes.”

In the welding lab, Alayah learned to cut, join, and create. She learned to take raw, seemingly mismatched pieces and build something strong, useful, and lasting. “And in many ways, that mirrors what this program did for me — it helped rebuild my life.”

Alayah wanted to recognize Mr. Kevin Kaswell, the “incredible welding instructor,” and the entire support staff behind this program. 

“Their patience, encouragement, and belief in their students make all the difference. They don’t just teach a curriculum — they restore confidence, self-worth, and purpose. That kind of impact ripples far beyond the classroom.”

Graduating from this program did not just give her a diploma and a trade — it gave her a life of purpose and dignity. “It gave me the ability to look my family in the eye and say, “I did it.” It opened doors to employment that were once closed. It gave me a sense of pride I had not felt in years.”

“And I’m not alone.”

“Alayah’s story is powerful because it shows exactly what adult education is meant to do,” said Dr. Glenn Faircloth, Superintendent of Lorain County JVS. “We’re not just handing out diplomas — we’re building futures, one student, one skill, one success at a time.”

Empowering Adults, Strengthening the Workforce

Every year, the Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center supports adult learners through programs in career areas like welding, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing — fields identified by the State of Ohio as high-demand, high-wage industries.

Welding, in particular, continues to be a critical trade in Northeast Ohio. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, welders in the region can earn an average annual wage of over $50,000, with opportunities for advancement and specialization. Employers across Lorain County and beyond are actively seeking skilled tradespeople — and graduates from LCJVS are filling those gaps.

Programs like the Adult Diploma Welding/Fabrication Program serve a dual purpose: they help individuals reach personal milestones while simultaneously addressing workforce shortages in key industries. As Ohio’s manufacturing and construction sectors continue to grow, so does the need for trained, certified welders.

One of the pathways available to adult learners is the Adult Diploma Program (ADP) — a unique initiative funded by the Ohio Department of Education. The ADP provides job training and a new pathway for adults serious about earning a high school diploma and industry credentials aligned to one of Ohio’s in-demand careers. This program is offered at no cost to those who qualify, helping remove financial barriers so adult learners can focus on building better futures.

“This is exactly why we do what we do,” said Kristian Smith, Director of the LCJVS Adult Career Center. “We’re here to provide practical, accelerated training that leads to sustainable careers. When someone like Alayah succeeds, our entire community benefits — from local employers to families and future generations.”

Building Bridges, Not Just Filling Gaps

“These programs don’t just fill a gap — they build bridges,” Alayah shared. “They connect individuals to opportunity, to community, and to a future they thought was out of reach.”

Adult learners often walk a difficult path to the classroom, but their resilience, drive, and commitment are unmatched. When given the right support and training, they thrive — and so do the communities around them.

Investing in adult education isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s the smart thing to do. It strengthens families. It boosts local economies. And it helps businesses find the skilled workers they desperately need.

Start Your Success Story

If you’re inspired by stories like Alayah Nelson’s and want to learn more about the career training programs that the Lorain County JVS Adult Career Center offers — from welding and healthcare to beauty and manufacturing. There, you’ll find resources for enrollment, program details, and how you can take the first step toward your own success story.