Ben Scott Finds Skills and Purpose at Aims

The welding program has provided more than just technical training — it’s given him independence, confidence, and a supportive community that has been instrumental in his personal growth and transformation.

From Military Service to Metalwork

Ben’s path to Aims started long before he picked up a welding torch. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2010 to 2014 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011. Originally from Piggott, Arkansas, he moved to Colorado eight years ago, drawn by the mountains and the chance for a fresh start. For years, Ben worked in construction, but something was still missing. 

It wasn’t until his bracelet broke that he found a new purpose.

Ben lost a close friend in service, which profoundly impacted him. “As a service member, you get a memorial bracelet. I had been wearing mine since I received it, and it never left my wrist,” he said. After years of wear, it became damaged. “Over time, the bracelet sharpened itself. It cut into my wrist, and there are small scars from where it wore down into my skin, and then one day, it finally broke. And that just kind of broke me down.”

The bracelet’s break was a turning point. When his girlfriend asked if he could fix it, he realized the only way would be through welding. Ben had some experience with welding, but it was limited. That realization led him to Aims, where he gained the skills to repair the bracelet himself. 

At Aims, Ben expanded his skills and found a deeper appreciation for the craft — both technically and creatively.  He has found a particular fondness for TIG welding. 

TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding quickly became Ben’s favorite type of welding, even though it is also the most challenging. He appreciates the level of skill it requires. It produces precise, clean and high-quality welds for thin materials. “TIG welding is the hardest but also the most rewarding. Some of the most beautiful welding you’ll ever see is TIG,” he said.

Ben also enjoys blacksmithing and working with the forge, something he was introduced to in his creative welding course. He’s made small projects, like a spoon, and has considered larger projects, such as a chipping hammer made from a railroad spike. “Creative Welding really expands off of the main welding program,” he said. “There’s probably well over a million dollars worth of equipment for less than $200. You won’t get that kind of studio time anywhere else.” For Ben, creative welding is where failure is embraced as part of the learning process.

“This class teaches you that no matter what happens, you’re always learning something. Failing is encouraged because, without failure, you’re not going to have success.”

Another reason Ben was drawn to this career path is to build the skills to enable him to work for himself. “I came to Aims knowing this career field would let me be in charge of myself — no boss, nobody telling me what to do,” he said. “That freedom really stood out to me.” Ben now sees welding as more than just a job; it’s a way to build a future, gain independence, and help others.

Overcoming Challenges and Paying It Forward

Ben’s journey hasn’t been without struggles. Learning hasn’t always come easy for him due to a traumatic brain injury, but the instructors at Aims have helped him every step of the way. His resilience and determination in the face of these challenges are a testament to his personal growth.

He thrives in his welding classes. It isn’t a traditional classroom setting. Ben likes working through things and getting his hands dirty. “My instructors sat down with me, made sure I had everything I needed to succeed, and never showed frustration — just patience,” he said. “Even when it came to math, which is by far the hardest thing for me, they took the time to break it down. By the end of it, I actually understood it.”  

The support system has motivated him, even on the most challenging days. “At Aims, you don’t have to worry about giving up. The camaraderie and my instructors have kept my head above water,” he said. “It’s easy to get lost in your thoughts when welding alone in a booth. But having instructors and classmates push you makes all the difference.”

Ben has also built camaraderie with his fellow students in his welding classes. “I’m a 32-year-old dude welding alongside high school students, and I don’t care. They don’t care. We all joke, laugh, and push through the tough days together.”  

He had initially thought it would just be him in a welding booth. He was surprised by the support that the welders gave each other.  

“A friendly competition in here pushes us to get better. We’re not just welding next to each other — we’re learning from each other. We share what works and what doesn’t, and we figure things out together.” Some of the best lessons I’ve learned in welding didn’t come from an instructor — they came from another student just figuring something out and passing it along.”

Outside the classroom, Ben is actively involved with Apex Angels & Warriors, a nonprofit organization supporting veterans and rescuing wolf dogs. The group focuses on non-traditional therapy, pairing veterans with these animals to help both heal from trauma. “To be around an apex predator that has gone through trauma, just like a veteran, creates an incredible relationship,” he said. “It’s a level of trust and healing that you can’t get in a traditional setting.” 

He believes that spending time in nature quiets the noise in your head. “Since coming out of the military, spending time outside and working with my hands has helped me get into a better headspace,” he said. This has inspired him to start his own nonprofit. “I want other veterans to have that same chance to reset and heal.”

His eventual goal is to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life by providing them with welding equipment, materials and training to build their own camper. “I’m hoping this snowballs into something bigger. The goal is to refine the process so that I have a solid plan when I’m ready to launch.”

In addition to receiving a camper, veterans would be invited on a week-long camping experience. This time in nature would allow them to reset, reflect, and connect with others who understand their struggles. Ben sees this project as a long-term goal. He knows that may take years to come to fruition, but he’s not giving up on it.

Next Steps

For Ben, Aims isn’t just where he learned to weld. It’s where he found a new direction. “I don’t know where I would be if I didn’t attend Aims. I’m glad I’m here,” he said. “I’m proud to call myself an Aardvark.”

Ben will graduate with a certificate in Welding Technology in May, but that doesn’t mean his journey at Aims is complete. He intends to take creative welding courses indefinitely, knowing there’s always more to learn. He wants to also gain skills in other areas. After a well-deserved break, Ben intends to study Computer Aided Drafting at Aims. 

That just leaves one piece of unfinished business: the bracelet. “I have a welder at home now, but this is something too important for me to rush.” Ben wants it to be the last welding project he completes on campus. “I want my skill set to be at the top of its game before I fix it,” he said. “Honestly, I’d like an instructor to be there. Some might say I shouldn’t need one, but I want it done right the first time.”