June 29, 2026
Some stories remind you exactly why workforce education matters.
For Pearl River Community College welding alumna Rikki Reynolds, what started as a six-month Workforce training program in Hancock County in 2014 didn’t simply lead to a job. It launched a career she loves, opened doors she never imagined, and ultimately brought her back to the very classrooms where her own journey began.
Today, Reynolds is a Master Welder at Textron Systems. A distinction earned through years of hard work, continuous learning and exceptional craftsmanship. But if you ask her where it all started, she’ll tell you it began at PRCC under the instruction of Raymond Jarrell.
“The workforce program gave me exactly what I needed to get started,” Reynolds said. “Mr. Raymond helped me meet the qualifications to pass my welding test, and from there I just kept learning.”
While working at Textron, Reynolds became proficient in MIG and TIG welding and earned the opportunity to train more in aluminum welding. Her dedication and willingness to take on new challenges eventually led her to earn the title of Master Welder, a distinction awarded only after an employee demonstrates exceptional performance and successfully completes a rigorous qualification process.
As a Master Welder, Reynolds is called upon to assist with specialized projects and major repairs throughout the company. This gives her the flexibility to work various jobs and keeps things interesting. Recently, she returned to Textron’s Slidell facility, where she first began her career, to help complete a critical repair project.
MALE DOMINATED FIELD
For Reynolds, one of the most rewarding aspects of her career has been succeeding in an industry where it is still predominantly male. When asked how it felt to be a woman Master Welder in the field, she said it was a great feeling and accomplishment regardless of gender.
“I love it,” she said. “I’ve earned the respect of the people I work with by doing my job well.”
She encourages other women interested in welding not to let intimidation stand in their way.
“Don’t be nervous. Don’t be afraid to be hands-on,” Reynolds said. “Have confidence in yourself. Tell yourself, ‘I am the welder. I am qualified.’”
“SHOW ME HOW”
If there’s one lesson Reynolds hopes future welders take with them, it has little to do with sparks or steel.
It’s an attitude.
“Instead of saying ‘no,’ say, ‘Show me how,'” she said. “I never turn down the opportunity to learn something new.”
That mindset has carried her from entry-level welder to Master Welder, allowing her to continue growing long after completing the six-month program that started it all.
She also reminds students that welding isn’t just physically demanding. It requires patience, problem-solving, and determination.
“People think welding is just physical work, but it’s mentally demanding, too,” Reynolds said. “Don’t get discouraged or frustrated.”
Sometimes the biggest difference between success and giving up is simply deciding to try one more time.
TEXTRON PARTNERSHIP
Recently, Reynolds had the opportunity to come full circle.
As part of PRCC’s partnership with Textron Systems, current welding students toured the shipyard to see firsthand what a future in the industry could look like. After the tour, Reynolds joined them back in the classroom, sharing her experiences, offering advice and helping students understand exactly what companies like Textron look for when hiring.
For many students, it was a chance to hear from someone who had once been sitting exactly where they are now.
“I’d love to have people from my school working with us,” Reynolds said.
Textron also generously donated equipment, materials, and the time of their employees to the program.
When Reynolds’ coworker and Lead Welding Instructor at Textron, Derrick Armond, was asked what piece of advice he would give to students considering going into this field, he reiterated Reynolds’ trust in PRCC’s Workforce mission.
“Come through this class!” Armond said.
PRCC PROUD
Ask Reynolds what she thinks about PRCC’s Workforce programs, and she doesn’t hesitate.
“You’re getting a great education in a short amount of time, and you’re not taking on thousands of dollars in student loans,” she said. “It’s less than a semester. Just try it. A workforce class could change your whole life. I’m a huge fan of how PRCC does its workforce programs.”
Workforce education isn’t simply about teaching a trade. It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and preparing students for careers that can support families and strengthen communities.
Every semester, new students walk into PRCC’s Workforce classrooms hoping to build a better future. Some are looking for a fresh start. Others are searching for a career they can be proud of.
Today, Rikki Reynolds is a Master Welder and a mentor to those who stand where she stood years ago. She’s committed to sharing not only her knowledge of the trade, but the confidence she hopes every PRCC Workforce graduate carries into the workforce, knowing they have the skills preparation and determination to succeed.
JOIN TODAY
PRCC offers a variety of Workforce training programs designed to prepare students for high-demand careers across the region. For more information about available programs, upcoming class schedules or enrollment, visit https://prcc.edu/workforce-training/ and join the Wildcat Family today!
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Article and photography by Alexx Kennedy.
