It’s hard to believe how much my life has changed since joining KAB seating in November 2022. Back then, I didn’t even know what welding was! I’m now a KAB-qualified welder with my EPA coming up in March and here’s a little about what I’ve learnt so far.
I’ve learned MIG, TIG and even how to do a few programmes on our robots - a skill I’m especially proud of since I managed to program one completely on my own when my mentor was off. It’s been amazing learning so much theory, exploring the health and safety side of things, and seeing how every detail really does matter.
Two weeks ago, I got the chance to represent KAB at the Komatsu Welding Olympics in Newcastle, where I was the only female throughout the whole competition including the painting, building and welding. Although it was intimidating, especially as welding itself is a male-dominated field, it made me want to push to succeed, to be great at what I do. It was such an empowering experience, and I met some of the most talented people and learned so many new skills such as oxy-acetylene cutting, stick welding, overhead welding and multi-run welding.
But it’s not just about the technical skills. Over the past year, I’ve grown so much personally too. My social and communication skills have improved, and I’ve learned to manage my stress and anxiety better. I don’t believe I am the same person mentally as I was a year ago and that’s one of my biggest achievements. I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly amazing people - colleagues who’ve become friends and mentors who’ve shared expertise you’d never see in everyday life.
Speaking of amazing people, I have to give a special shoutout to Kath. On 01/05/24, I was put on the robot Kath operated and from that day forward she has been my biggest supporter. I couldn’t thank her enough for all the great chats we’ve had.
KAB has given me the opportunity to step into the real world and develop skills I didn’t even know I had. I’ll always be grateful for that. It’s also helped me shift my mindset. While the world feels so negative lately, I’ve learned to focus on the positive and strive to be a better person each day for me and my company.
It’s been an incredible journey so far, but this is only the beginning. With retirement in 2070, there’s still a lot of work to do.
Here’s to more learning and growth ahead!
