The student debt crisis has pushed many families to rethink the traditional college path. Madison County High School senior Gavin Heath never had to rethink it. He’s already on a different track entirely, building welding skills and business experience that will launch him into a debt-free career straight out of high school. 

The 16-year-old is dual-enrolled at Athens Technical College in their welding program, working as an intern at Caterpillar, and planning to launch his own mobile welding business after high school graduation. HireSmart Cares, a nonprofit focused on workforce development, awarded Heath a $250 grant to help him purchase equipment for his entrepreneurial venture. 

“My innovation is using welding not only as a trade skill, but as a way to build a self-built, small business,” Heath said in his grant application. 

Heath’s vision extends beyond traditional welding shops. He plans to bring his services directly to farmers and businesses across the region. 

“By offering mobile services, farmers/businesses will not have to load up a piece of machinery/equipment and drive to a repair location,” said Heath. “This alleviates a longer time frame in getting the equipment repaired which will potentially prevent frustration, hardship and loss of income.” 

Heath is on an accelerated diploma career path at Athens Technical College and will graduate with his welding diploma in May 2026. By the time he receives his high school diploma, he will have already earned two Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) credentials: one in Shielded Metal Arc Welding and another in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding. 

“I have a goal of not going into debt in order to build my business,” said Heath. “I have been saving money to help me begin my business.” 

While working part-time and pursuing his education, Heath is also gaining real-world experience through his internship at Caterpillar and mentorship with Conkel Welding Business. 

Heath’s plans exemplify the kind of career path HireSmart Cares champions: young people learning practical trades while still in high school, building skills for a lifetime of employment, and avoiding the burden of college debt that weighs down so many graduates. 

“I hope to serve as a role model for them showing students that with dedication, drive, sacrifices and hard work, one can be successful at a young age,” said Heath. 

His passion for his chosen field is evident in his dedication to excellence. 

“Since I have a passion for my future career in welding, I am working hard to do well and earn great grades,” he said. 

Heath plans to continue working for Caterpillar after high school graduation while continuing to save money and build his mobile welding service. He’s also considering pipeline work opportunities that offer competitive pay to accelerate his business launch. 

“I plan to offer essential welding services, such as repairs and fabrication,” said Heath, whose services will include equipment repairs, on-site fabrication, and emergency 24/7 calls. 

HireSmart Cares is a Madison County-based 501c3 that provides grants, scholarships, and support for young people pursuing careers in agriculture and trades. The organization believes that four-year college isn’t the only path to success and that skilled trades offer excellent career prospects without the financial burden of college debt. 

For more information about HireSmart Cares and its support for youth entering trades careers, visit hiresmartcares.org. To suggest additional ways HireSmart can support career development for young people, email info@hiresmartcares.org. Educators with innovative approaches to preparing students for industry-relevant skills can apply for a HireSmart Cares grant at hiresmartcares.org/ideas-application.