StemU Foundation

Congratulations to Armando Lopez on this important milestone in his welding journey. His achievement reflects the broader work STEM U Foundation is advancing through the STEM U Global Exchange by creating pathways for both students and educators to access technical training, international exposure, and industry-aligned opportunities.

We also extend our appreciation to H.E. Ambassador Nestor Mendez for welcoming the delegation and continuing to encourage opportunities that connect Belizean students and educators to global learning and leadership. Special thanks as well to Aaron Wulk, CWI at South Piedmont Community College, for facilitating and completing Armando’s AWS test on March 18, 2026.

We are also grateful to the St. Ignatius High School executive team and EDGE Welding for trusting the process and supporting the partnerships that helped make this milestone possible.

Moments like this reflect the value of collaboration in strengthening technical education and expanding future opportunities for Belize.

Students from Saint Ignatius High School in Belize recently participated in a Metal Art Workshop at Central Piedmont Community College as part of the STEM U Global Exchange Program.

The workshop gave students the opportunity to explore creative welding techniques while working alongside talented metal artists and fellow welding students. Through hands-on fabrication and collaboration, participants strengthened both their technical abilities and their understanding of the artistic possibilities within welding.

The session was led by accomplished metal artists Codie Aljets, Staci Martinez, and Sam Sykes, who guided students through the creative process of metal art fabrication while encouraging collaboration and innovation.

Events like this demonstrate how technical education can combine craftsmanship, creativity, and industry knowledge to expand opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals.

We extend our appreciation to Central Piedmont Community College, the American Welding Society chapter, and our partners at EDGE Welding Supply for helping make this experience possible.