"When I am not in the welding labs you can most likely find me enjoying the trails around Williamsport. I love hiking or mountain biking with my friends."
Nik Harnish
- Student
- Welding & Metal Fabrication
After taking classes at his CTC, Nik knew a career in welding was the route for him. His guidance counselor recommended Penn College and Nik moved full-speed ahead. Today, he's thriving in his courses, enjoying outdoor adventures with friends, and flexing his leadership skills as a resident assistant and president of the student chapter of American Welding Society.
TAKING THE LEAD
Q&A with Nik
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT PENN COLLEGE?
I heard about Penn College through my high school counselor. I loved welding, but knew there was more I could learn. He pointed me here.
HOW DOES THE WORLD OF WELDING INSPIRE YOU?
The world of welding is just inspiring to me in every aspect. There are countless job opportunities and unique experiences everywhere you go. It keeps me engaged. I'm learning so much more about welding than I expected.
HOW IS PENN COLLEGE HELPING YOU DESIGN YOUR DREAM CAREER?
Penn College is helping me design my dream career because countless doors open from the education you receive here. You really get to shape your education to what you want!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST IMPACTFUL MOMENT OF YOUR WILDCAT EXPERIENCE THUS FAR?
The most impactful experience I have had at Penn College is definitely being an Resident Assistant. This opportunity encouraged me to pursue more leadership positions within AWS and the Student Government Association. It really has been the cornerstone of my college experience.
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PROFESSOR AND WHY?
My favorite professor would definitely be Ryan Good. He really pushes students to the next level and propels you in high classes. Mr. Good's vast knowledge is offered to his students 100% of the time.
HOW DOES CORPORATE SUPPORT ENHANCE YOUR PENN COLLEGE EXPERIENCE?
Corporate support for students is truly the foundation of everything at Penn College. Without our corporate support, the curriculum, labs, and tools wouldn’t be what they are today!
TELL US ABOUT AWS.
The American Welding Society is a student chapter here on campus that focuses on introducing students to the welding industry and allows us to get some extra hands-on opportunities through community service.
HOW HAS AWS INFLUENCED YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?
Once I was introduced to the American Welding Society, I was hooked. Through my activity in this organization as treasurer and then president, I have learned invaluable leadership skills that I will carry with me for my lifetime. The national AWS also has assisted greatly in my academic pursuit financially. I received multiple scholarships to aid me in my endeavors.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO ALL WHO INVESTED IN THE WELDING EXPANSION?
To all who invested in the expansion of the welding shop, thank you! A simple thank you does not seem like hardly enough for your contributions. I hope my meaningful educational experience speaks more!
Explore Beyond
Taking in the full college experience
As an RA, Nik lends a hand during move-in weekend.
Proudly holding the college banner, Nik represented Penn College at a Penn State football game.
Penn State's President came to campus and Nik was first to ask a question during the Q&A.
As president of the student chapter of AWS, Nik looks forward to hosting Arc Asylum, one of our most popular Halloween attractions.
Featured Video
Gaining real-world experience
Walk across campus and you’ll see evidence of the maker culture around every corner. Newly added to the landscape was a chopper-style motorcycle—designed and fabricated by welding students and decorated by reality TV’s favorite metal artist, Rae Ripple. Check out the video to see Nik's part and how the latest creation came to life.
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