Senior Riley McKnight First from Fabrication Program to Gain Additional Certifications While a Student at Blue Hills

Riley McKnight, a senior at Blue Hills Regional Technical School, became the school’s first Metal Fabrication student to earn multiple welding certifications beyond the program’s standard requirements while still in high school. (Photo courtesy Blue Hills Regional Technical School)

CANTON — Superintendent-Director Jill Rossetti and Principal Geoffrey Zini are proud to share that senior Riley McKnight recently accomplished an unprecedented level of certification in welding while still a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical School.

Riley, a student in the Metal Fabrication and Joining Technologies Department, became only the second female student in the program’s history to pass the SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) 3G Vertical Position Weld test during her junior year. Determined to build on this success, she sought out a cooperative education position where she could further apply and develop her skills.

Riley, a Milton resident, found that co-op opportunity at Blue Atlantic Fabricators in East Boston, where she began working in November. While there, Riley continued to push boundaries, earning two additional industry certifications — GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) 1G Flat Position and FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) 3G Vertical Position — both on her first attempt.

This achievement makes Riley the first Blue Hills Metal Fabrication student to earn multiple welding certifications beyond the program’s standard requirements while still in high school.

Riley’s Metal Fabrication instructor, Brian Gearty, praised Riley’s drive and technical ability.

“Riley has set a benchmark for what’s possible for our welding students,” Gearty said. “She’s not just meeting industry standards. She’s exceeding them before even graduating high school. Her dedication, work ethic, and ability to master multiple welding processes at such a high level are truly impressive.”

Vocational Director Michelle Sylvia highlighted the significance of Riley’s success and what it says about the potential of students at Blue Hills more broadly.

“Riley is proof that when students are given the right training, opportunities, and encouragement, they can accomplish so much and set themselves up for future success,” Sylvia said. “Riley is not only advancing her own career but also inspiring other young women to pursue careers in welding and skilled trades. She has broken barriers and proven that with hard work and commitment, there are no limits to what our students can achieve.”

Riley’s achievements reflect the impact of a quality vocational education on students at Blue Hills, while providing inspiration for other students who are considering a technical vocation.

“This is what vocational education is all about — equipping students with real-world skills that translate directly into success in the workforce,” Principal Zini said. “Riley’s accomplishments reinforce the strength of our Metal Fabrication program and showcase what our students are capable of.”

Superintendent-Director Rossetti commended Riley for her hard work.

“As she prepares to graduate, she has already set herself apart by getting a head start, readying herself to become an expert in her field and to take on new challenges in the world of welding,” Superintendent-Director Rossetti said. “Riley’s willingness to take on new challenges and ready herself for success in the world of welding is the epitome of what it means to be a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical School.”

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