Student Spotlight: Adam Hupert

As a proud union journeyman ironworker, El Camino College alum Adam Hupert enjoys his career as a welder – each day brings a new set of projects and challenges. From large-scale construction to highly detailed work, he is constantly finding ways to solve problems and apply his skills, while being a part of a team dedicated to completing tasks safely and efficiently.

“I love welding – I am a huge welding nerd,” said Hupert, who grew up in Torrance. “I think that harnessing the power of lightning, mastering the knowledge of metallurgy, and using specialized skills to join metals together is the coolest thing ever.”

Hupert graduated from El Camino several years ago with certificates in welding, a decision that would put him on a successful path to a rewarding career.

Now a journeyman ironworker with Union Local 433, he was recently honored as one of two top apprentices from the entire graduating class. This distinction is awarded to apprentices with the highest GPA in all classes, and with the most hours worked. Classmates also nominate candidates for consideration.

“This award means a lot to me,” Hupert said. “I tried very hard to be the best student, as well as to work as hard as I could and as many hours as I could. It's a good feeling to have my efforts recognized.”

Hupert was able to do a considerable amount of journeyman-level work from the start of his apprenticeship because of his previous construction experience and advanced welding ability. Highlights from the apprenticeship include working on several multibillion-dollar projects from LAX to LA-area public transportation.

“Local 433 has been good to me,” he said. “In addition to the work, other highlights include the brothers and sisters that I work with. I enjoy working with people who I trust with my life, as well as knowing they trust me with theirs.”

His interest in welding sparked several years ago when he needed to weld some things together, so he learned some basic techniques by watching YouTube videos. He soon discovered a passion for welding and decided to pursue a career in this field. He then enrolled in El Camino’s welding program where he found many opportunities to learn and network with potential employers.

“The process wasn't easy, but my love for the craft kept me highly motivated and disciplined,” Hupert said. “I enjoy all of it. I like being paid to exercise. I like the thrill of doing crazy things that most people wouldn't have the courage to do. I thought that working up high and having to walk on 3-inch beams was something I wouldn't be able to do, but I have learned that one must never think or say ‘I can't’ as an ironworker. We can do anything and there is always a way.”

Hupert says the best part about his time at El Camino was definitely the staff, who helped guide him toward the apprenticeship. He keeps in touch with professors Dylan Meek and Albert Sandoval, who have become great friends and mentors – part of a greater El Camino College community that has helped him succeed.

“For me, being a Warrior means having the discipline and honor to set one's mind to a goal and truly believing that nothing can stop them from achieving that goal.”