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Still Building America—Welding big birds, pursuing big dreams

Lucca Ilbert is a welder and inspector out of southern Florida, where he works at the Miami International Airport.

Metal and hard work run through his veins, as his grandfather was a blacksmith and his uncle is a pipefitter in the Carolinas. A traditional classroom-based education was not going to outfit Lucca with the tools he needed to succeed. After taking welding classes at a unique secondary vocational school, the Robert Morgan Educational Center, Miami, Lucca fueled his passion by watching YouTube welding videos and practicing whenever he could find a spare minute.

“Kept me out of trouble anyways,” Lucca said.

Robert Morgan is the type of school we need to see more of. It’s a 9th through 12th grade facility that focuses on design, engineering, art, and technical trades. You potentially could come out as an 18-year-old ready to take the next step in your field, or to further your education.

Fabricating and repairing aviation industry parts, such as air ducts, brackets, and flanges made from aluminum and titanium, make up the majority of Lucca’s production. “I wasn't the smartest kid in school. Book work wasn't for me, but I was good at hard labor. I always liked to see (the results of) my hard work, my dedication.”

Building pieces for airplanes is the highlight of his job.

Down the line, Lucca wants to own his own Federal Aviation Administration- approved shop, where he will specialize in aircraft fabrication.

“Not everyone can say they weld on planes or aircrafts.” I can get down with that. As someone who welds up parts for military vehicles like Abrams and Strykers, I know there definitely is a pride that comes with working on those types of things.

Lucca’s advice: “Never let anyone stop you from making your dreams come true; tell yourself ‘you can’ and never let others put you down. Set goals on a daily basis; doing so prepares you mentally.”

All images courtesy of Lucca Ilbert.

About the Author
Brown Dog Welding

Josh Welton

Owner, Brown Dog Welding

(586) 258-8255