Students in Kelso High School’s advanced welding classes are putting their skills to work on a real-world project that strengthens community safety and builds valuable career experience.
In partnership with the Kelso Police Department (KPD), students are fabricating and installing pit bars on two decommissioned police vehicles to help officers train for Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers—a controlled method law enforcement uses to safely end vehicle pursuits.
To prepare for these critical trainings, KPD needed durable, custom-built bumpers that could withstand repeated impact without damaging the vehicles. Instead of outsourcing the work, they turned to Kelso High’s skilled student welders.
“This is a great example of community outreach and partnership between the Kelso Police Department and Kelso School District,” said Kelso High School Security Resource Officer Jeff Brown.
Under the guidance of welding instructor Steve Mahitka, students began modifying the first vehicle this fall and expect to finish it by late November. Work on the second car will begin during the second trimester.
Excited about the project, Mahitka said, “Our students are learning hands-on skills while directly supporting public safety.”
For student welder Dale Pippin, the project represents something much more than classroom practice.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to work on something that will be put to good use—not just for a grade,” Pippen said.
By combining classroom learning with authentic community projects, Kelso High’s welding program gives students a powerful sense of purpose and preparation for future careers.
Why It Matters:
Students apply career-connected learning in a real-world public safety project.
The partnership strengthens community collaboration between the district and local law enforcement.
KPD gains custom-built training equipment while students gain technical experience that aligns with workforce needs.
Kelso School District has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education and a goal of 100% (bit.ly/ksd-100) of students graduating high school and having post-secondary plans for college, career, trades, or military. The CTE program offers approximately 80 on-site courses and 7 off-campus courses in partnership with industry leaders. Students can earn dual credit in 21 CTE courses. In the area of welding, the district offers the opportunity to earn five welding certifications. Kelso School District’s mission is to prepare every student for living, learning, and achieving success as a citizen of our changing world.