The Shadow
COVINGTON Va. (VR) — Davin May, a welding student at Jackson River Technical Center (JRTC), has reached an impressive milestone — earning a Career Studies Certificate (CSC) from Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) before even graduating from high school.
May completed all required college coursework and graduated from MGCC on May 9. He will walk across the stage again on May 30 to receive his diploma from Alleghany High School. In addition to his high school diploma, he will also receive a Program Certificate from JRTC, recognizing the successful completion of his technical education pathway.
While the final courses were completed during his senior year, May earned the Career Studies Certificate in Fundamentals of Welding for two and a half years, demonstrating long-term dedication and consistent effort throughout his high school career. Through MGCC’s Fundamentals of Welding program, he completed eight welding courses and earned approximately 20 college credits — some of which were awarded based on his prior skills and experience.
This achievement marks a first for JRTC. While many students have earned college credit before graduating high school, May is the first welding student to complete the full Career Studies Certificate, setting a new standard for what is possible through career and technical education.
May was also named the Outstanding Senior in the JRTC welding program this year, an honor that reflects not only his success as a student but also his leadership and perseverance.
His success was supported by a dedicated team, including:
- Jamie Huffman, JRTC welding instructor, who provided daily guidance and mentorship;
- Walt Johnson, MGCC welding instructor, who collaborated with JRTC to create an advanced welding pathway;
- Holly Fasig, a career coach at Mountain Gateway Community College, who assisted with college registration, financial aid, and scholarships; and
- Ann Courtney, a Mountain Gateway Community College academic advisor and dual enrollment coordinator, who supports students in planning their college and career goals.
May’s journey wasn’t always easy.
“Welding can be aggravating at times,” he said. “There were moments I felt like walking out and never coming back. If it wasn’t for Mr. Huffman, I probably wouldn’t be here. He’s a great teacher. You’ve just gotta keep going and keep learning. Don’t quit if it’s something you really want to do.”
His interest in welding sparked during his junior year and quickly turned into a passion. He has shown remarkable dedication—taking extra classes, earning certifications, and preparing for both state and national SkillsUSA competitions.
In fact, May recently won the Virginia State SkillsUSA Welding Competition and will represent the Commonwealth at the National SkillsUSA Welding Championship in Atlanta, Georgia, from June 23 to 27. He hopes to become the fifth national champion to emerge from the prestigious JRTC Welding Program — a legacy of excellence that continues to grow.
May plans to continue his training through MGCC’s pipe welding program. Afterward, he hopes to relocate to South Carolina, where he plans to find employment through a family connection.
Dual enrollment, he says, played a big role in helping him reach his goals.
“It’s been well worth it,” he said. “It’s really helped me follow my career path.”
The outlook for welders like May is strong. The American Welding Society projects the U.S. will need about 330,000 new welders by 2028, with roughly 82,500 job openings each year from 2024 to 2028. Welders are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, construction, infrastructure, and energy. Starting pay averages over $50,000 per year, with even higher wages for those in specialized fields.
Reflecting on May’s accomplishment, Huffman said: “Davin’s been a great student, and I believe he has a bright future. Like anything worth learning, welding comes with challenges — but you have to push through and keep going.”
He also encourages other students to explore opportunities at JRTC.
“It’s not just welding — we have many strong programs. Don’t be afraid to try a class. Sometimes you’ll realize it’s not the right fit, but other times, you’ll find your passion. The important thing is to be open to exploring your future,” Huffman said.
May’s success highlights the strength of the partnerships between Alleghany Highlands Public Schools and Mountain Gateway Community College, which help students get a head start on their careers.
About Alleghany Highlands Public Schools
Jackson River Technical Center is part of the Alleghany Highlands Public Schools Division. This school division was created in July 2022 when Alleghany County Public Schools and Covington City Public Schools merged. The division is jointly supported by Alleghany County and the City of Covington.
Stay up to date with AHPS news and events by following them on Facebook at AHPublicSchools and Instagram at ahpublicschools. You can also find more information on the division’s website: www.ahps.k12.va.us.
Davin May (AHPS photo)
