Alumna and welding instructor Mioshi Neal

A welding trainer for Burlington Northern Santa Fe, Mioshi Neal has an iron will, persevering through determination and hard work.

Neal was a nontraditional student while earning her associate of applied science degree in metal fabrication (welding) technology from 1998-2002. She worked 10- to 12-hour shifts at SPX (formerly Marley) Cooling Technologies in Olathe, attended JCCC classes from 6 to 10 p.m., and studied at lunch, after classes until midnight and during family weekend and summer outings.

"Four hours of sleep was normal for me," Neal said. "I was determined to complete my degree so the word 'tired' never entered my vocabulary."

Already an experienced welder, Neal's objective was the degree, a goal she had postponed until her son completed high school. After earning her associate's degree, Neal was certified by Richard Rowe, professor of welding, as an American Welding Society shielded metal arc welder, qualifying her to the D1.1 Structural Steel Welding Code.

"I was impressed with her skills," Rowe said. "Most people make several attempts at welding in the vertical-upright position to pass certification. Mioshi did it right the first time. When we needed an instructor on short notice, I remembered her desire to teach welding and recommended her."

Neal continued at SPX and began teaching at night in 2004 as an adjunct in the JCCC welding program, handling up to four classes per semester. Neal found teaching fulfilling.

"It's a rewarding feeling to know I have helped numerous students obtain jobs with the skills I have taught them," Neal said.

Wanting to continue her teaching, Neal obtained a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Phoenix in June 2007. In April 2008, after 20 years of working at SPX, Neal started as a full-time Burlington Northern Santa Fe welding trainer.

In September 2008, Neal became an American Welding Society certified associate welding inspector, responsible for quality control in the industry.

"I have reaped the benefits of hard work, and other people can do it, too, if they are determined," Neal said. "I have been able to achieve career goals that I never knew existed, making more money than ever before."

But Neal says it's important to never stop learning. Her next goal is a master's degree in instruction and curriculum.

Did she have to work harder to prove herself as a woman in a male-dominated field?

"You know I did," she said.

Rowe is not surprised that Neal has come far and fast as a student-turned-teacher.

"She is a real ball of fire," he said.