The skills students learn in career and technical education programs often lead to exciting careers—but sometimes they also lead to award-winning art.
Three graduates of the Wilson Talent Center Welding Technology program recently earned first place at the Art Explosion 6.0 exhibit at the IQhub in St. Johns for their striking metal sculpture titled Rose.
The sculpture, crafted from reclaimed horseshoes, reflects both technical skill and artistic vision. The piece combines the strength and structure of welded metal with the graceful form of a horse, creating a powerful tribute to the animal’s movement and spirit.
The sculpture was created collaboratively by graduates Elijah Dingwell, Dakota Barnett, and Holden Klem during their time in the Welding Technology program at Wilson Talent Center.
Beyond its success at the local exhibition, the piece has also been selected to appear in the most recent Art Prize exhibition in Grand Rapids—one of the largest public art competitions in the world.
The recognition highlights how career and technical education programs like Welding Technology at Wilson Talent Center develop more than technical skills. Students learn craftsmanship, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration—skills that apply across industries and disciplines.
For these graduates, the welding skills they developed in the classroom helped transform raw materials into an award-winning piece of art.
And their success continues to represent the impact of hands-on learning long after graduation.
Recent Stories:
During Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, students at Wilson Talent Center were gaining hands-on experience in fields ranging from healthcare to law enforcement. Through specialized programs and real-world training, students build skills, explore career pathways, and prepare for life after high school.
Three recent graduates of the Wilson Talent Center Welding Technology program earned first place at the Art Explosion 6.0 exhibit at the IQhub in St. Johns for their metal sculpture titled Rose. The piece, crafted from reclaimed horseshoes, was also selected for the prestigious Art Prize exhibition in Grand Rapids.
