{"id":3789,"date":"2026-01-20T08:50:21","date_gmt":"2026-01-20T16:50:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/klamathid.org\/home\/?p=3789"},"modified":"2026-01-20T09:05:16","modified_gmt":"2026-01-20T17:05:16","slug":"building-our-future-inspiring-the-next-generation-of-klamath-trades","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/klamathid.org\/home\/2026\/01\/20\/building-our-future-inspiring-the-next-generation-of-klamath-trades\/","title":{"rendered":"Building Our Future: Inspiring the Next Generation of Klamath Trades"},"content":{"rendered":"

We were proud to join the Klamath Home Builders Association (KBHBA) for their incredible “Build My Future” event! It was a fantastic day dedicated to introducing local students to the skilled trades that keep our community running.<\/p>\n

With over 250 students from 8 local high schools in attendance, the energy was high, and the curiosity was contagious. The Klamath Irrigation District team was on-site with two interactive booths designed to give students a real-world look at the work we do.<\/p>\n

Hands-On Learning: Welding & Fabrication<\/b> Our Fabricator, Michael Kirkpatrick, spent the day mentoring students in the art of welding. It wasn’t just about the sparks; Michael focused on teaching proper technique and the critical importance of safety, ensuring every student learned how to safeguard themselves from flash burn while getting hands-on experience with the equipment.<\/p>\n

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Caption: Students watching a welding demonstration and learning about fabrication safety.<\/i><\/p>\n

The Science of Water Delivery<\/b> At our second booth, we dove into the technical side of water management. We showcased a demonstration unit featuring four different types of pumps, integrated with various relay logic and low-voltage control schemes. This setup allowed students to see the “brains” behind the operation\u2014how we move water efficiently and the technical skills required to maintain these complex systems.<\/p>\n

Caption: Students exploring pump mechanics and control logic at the KID booth.<\/i><\/p>\n

Investing in Community<\/b> Events like “Build My Future” are vital for connecting the next generation with rewarding career paths right here in the Klamath Basin. Whether it’s through welding, electrical work, or water systems management, we want students to know that they can build a strong future locally.<\/p>\n

A huge thank you to the Klamath Home Builders Association for organizing this event and allowing us to be a partner in education. We had a great day!<\/p>\n

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Learn More:<\/b> Check out the Build My Future initiative at KBHBA.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\t\t