For Lisa Heatherly, returning to Renton Technical College’s welding program after over 25 years, was about keeping a promise to herself.

“Coming back to school is about completing what I started,” she shared. “I began the welding program at RTC with high hopes of graduating. However, due to significant life events beyond my control, I was unable to complete the program.”

Her dream to become a welder remained. Even while raising her son on her own, and the health challenges that come with having Crohn’s Disease, she persevered and in 2018 she returned to RTC to complete her high school diploma. Now in her fourth quarter of the welding program, Lisa couldn’t be happier, and proud of what she has already accomplished.

Receiving the Dahlby Family Scholarship for the Trades was another empowering and full-circle moment for Lisa. “Without scholarships I would not have been able to get as far as I have in school. They [donors] are investing in my future, and that means more than I can say.”

Support from the RTC Foundation has given Lisa the opportunity to cut back on her hours working at the Crisis Connections organization to focus on her education and staying healthy. “It’s a nice relief not to stress over the costs of tools and tuition,” she shared.

When asked about her future she smiles. “Welding in very vast. There are many pathways and even with AI, welding will never go away,” she shared. “I could see myself at Boeing or another large manufacturer where there are opportunities to grow.”

Because of your generosity, she is now focused on building her future, and loves coming to the welding lab every day. Lisa has found her place, and calls RTC “a great home and sanctuary, where instructors are super supportive and where you are given the opportunity to learn and grow even when making mistakes.”