May 5, 2023
“You never know until you try.” Everyone knows the saying, but there’s a reason why adages stand the test of time. Trying something new can lead to new interests, opportunities, and even discovering something about yourself that you didn’t expect. That was a 15-year-old high school student’s attitude after seeing a recent poster for one of our March break Mind Over Metal Youth Camps.
Ayva Siokalo stumbled upon one of our welding camp posters in the halls of Fredericton Christian Academy, a secondary school in New Brunswick. She was initially drawn in by the prospect of trying something outside of what she was typically interested in. As a self-professed “theatre kid,” she quickly discovered a passion for welding despite her initial apprehension. Eventually, she went on to compete at Skills New Brunswick, an experience she didn’t foresee until she gained confidence through our welding camp.
“I thought the Mind Over Metal camp at Leo Hayes High School was awesome. I really liked it,” Ayva said of her positive experience. “Even on day one, when we were laying beads, I had so much fun.”
Going into the camp, Ayva believed a welding gun in her hand would spell disaster for herself and those around her. Still, after guidance from the supportive instructors onsite, she discovered she was more capable than expected. After the camp, instructors gently nudged her to compete in the upcoming New Brunswick Skills competition.
Some could say that welding is in Ayva’s blood. To prepare for the competition, she studied welding books passed down from her great-grandfather, who happened to be a master welder in his day. Even though she felt like she lacked experience, Ayva found the Skills competition welcoming and engaging.
“It was a nice environment. It didn’t feel like there was any pressure, even though it was a competition,” she said. “I’m not sure how I placed since they only grade the top three contestants, but I don’t think I came in last.”
When asked if she would do it again, she responded with an enthusiastic, “Yes!”
Ayva’s mom, Krystal, who was very supportive of her daughter’s interest in welding, says seeing her try something new and end up competing in a major competition was unexpectedly “amazing.”
“She came home with a Mind Over Metal camp poster and asked if I could sign her up. It wasn’t something I thought she would be interested in, but it opened a lot of doors and showed her that there are opportunities outside of university. I’ve been telling people that if you have a 12- to 17-year-old at home, get them to experience a Mind Over Metal camp and see where it goes.”
For any youth considering getting into welding or competing in a Skills competition, Ayva offers some simple advice: “Just go for it.”
Ayva’s story highlights the potential for youth to discover new passions and gain valuable, career-building skills through programs like our Mind Over Metal Youth Camps. If you or someone you know would like a taste of what it’s like to be a welder, look for a Mind Over Metal Youth Camp near you on our Events Calendar.
We would like to thank the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) for their sponsorship of this camp and Leo Hayes High School for their partnership and for being an accommodating host. We couldn’t provide these types of programs without you.