Student Experience: Harold Collins

“After retiring as a manager with AT&T, the welding program started me on a second successful career. My wife, Sharon — also a Dallas College welding student — and I operated a showroom at the Dallas World Trade Center, showcasing custom furnishings and accessories for interior decoration and architectural clients. 

“After moving to California, my wife and I have continued our artistic collaboration, participating in juried art venues, and are represented by galleries. Sharon’s artistic endeavors have gone toward ceramics and glass, which blend beautifully with metal. 

“Since joining the welding faculty of Allan Hancock College on its Santa Maria campus, I have assisted in expanding the program to include metal art classes. I instruct classes in metal sculpture, garden art and ornamental iron.  “The best part of my experience was the camaraderie of the students and instructor, Dewayne Roy. The students shared information, provided constructive criticism and generally helped those needing assistance.

“The most important thing I learned was not to hesitate to begin a new, completely foreign endeavor. I would most certainly recommend the program to both welding and art students. The educational atmosphere created in the welding program is second to none — ensuring success to any student willing to work.” 

Harold Collins holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and has taken graduate classes at UCLA and UNC in California. Allan Hancock College is a California public community college system located in northern Santa Barbara County with approximately 10,000 credit students enrolled each semester on four campuses.

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