R.B. Russell Students fire up creativity in welding challenge

Students at R.B. Russell Vocational High School are turning up the heat. They've built a custom fire pit for the Canadian Welding Bureau’s Winnipeg chapter build challenge. 

The project was created in the school's welding shop. It features a unique rat rod design that stands out from typical fire pits. 

 "We knew we would have to think out of the box if we had a shot at winning this competition," says Mike Johnston, welding teacher at R.B. Russell. 

 The fire pit has become a school-wide attraction. Students from various programs visit the welding shop to check on the progress. 

 "Although I came up with the idea, everybody in the class had input on the design," Johnston explains. "As the project moved forward, students would give their opinions and suggestions on what they thought would look cool." 

Ocean and Larry, both Grade 12 students, took on key roles in the project. Each faced different challenges that tested their skills. 

"The most challenging part was welding the rat rod's cab," says Ocean. "We used a satin-coated metal to give it a different look than regular steel." 

This material choice added complexity to the welding process. Ocean had to adapt her technique to maintain quality. 

"It's a lot harder to weld with this type of material, so for me, that was the most challenging, trying to make my welds look good," she adds. 

Larry focused on creating the structural elements of the design. His work required precise measurements and careful planning. 

"For me, the most challenging part of this build was the front axle," Larry explains. "I had to get all the angles right to make sure that the rat rod was straight." 

The design required creative problem-solving. The team wanted to avoid welding the wheels directly to the motor. 

"We didn't want to weld the front wheels directly to the motor, so I had to build a drop-down axle," says Larry. "I needed to make sure the front height of the frame was the same as the back." 

Both students plan to pursue welding after graduation. Their experience in Johnston's class has shaped their career paths. 

"I wish to continue welding after high school. I plan to go to Neeginan College of Applied Technology in the fall," says Larry. "Mike helped me make that decision because we always get to build cool projects, and his class is always fun."

Ocean shares similar plans: "I also plan to continue welding after high school. I plan to go to Red River College in the fall. Mike helped me decide to continue welding because he's my favourite teacher." 

The completed fire pit will be judged at an upcoming annual student night at East Elmwood Community Center. The event allows students to network with welding companies and explore career opportunities. 

All fire pit entries will help raise funds for student post-secondary bursaries. The top three teams will receive a $500 cash prize based on voting at the student event.  

Check out other impressive welding projects by students at R.B. Russell Vocational School in the video below: