Welding in high school helps to launch career

Brooklyn Park, May 20, 2021 – Instead of a cap and gown at graduation, Ty Larson wore a welding helmet and gloves while he showed off his new diploma at the Hennepin Technical College (HTC) spring graduation in 2021.

Larson’s graduation was unique for another reason. He completed a college degree prior to officially receiving his high school diploma. That’s because Larson was a student in Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), a program in which students attend college and high school simultaneously and earn dual credits.

PSEO students earn college credits at no cost for tuition, books and fees. Larson attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Bloomington while enrolled at HTC.

“PSEO was a terrific way for me to explore whether or not I liked welding without any risk of paying for the classes. It turned out great because I discovered welding is the best career for me,” said Larson.

Larson’s dream is to launch a business that creates custom-made bicycle frames which will allow him to combine his passion for the outdoors with his new welding skills.

HTC encourages PSEO enrollment as an effective way to encourage more students to enter career and technical education, which has been proven to improve high school graduation rates.

Recently, HTC increased the number of PSEO students despite obstacles caused by the pandemic. In addition, the college added new general education classes available to PSEO students.

About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Technical College (HTC) is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college offers degree and non-degree courses in over 45 programs. Achieving a high job placement rate, HTC prepares students for in-demand and high-paying employment opportunities.