A Spark Ignited in High School

Aiden’s welding story began in the halls of Cheraw High School, where a teacher named Jason McGee offered a welding class that would shape his future. “I took that through high school and just got really good at it,” Aiden recalls. “It just clicked.”

As a dual-enrollment student, Aiden was already thinking ahead. Rather than stopping at a certificate, he set his sights on a more in-depth education, one that would allow him to master his craft and open more doors professionally. “I just wanted to carry my knowledge further,” he says.

Finding His Path at NETC

It was another teacher, Mr. Bobby, who pointed him toward Northeastern Technical College. “He told me Northeastern had a really good welding instructor,” Aiden says. That recommendation led him to Corey Botelho, a skilled instructor who would go on to play a pivotal role in Aiden’s development as a welder.

“Mr. Botelho knows a lot about welding, and he’s funny too,” Aiden says with a smile. But more than that, he was a mentor who took time to help. “If I didn’t know something, he’d sit down with me. Of course, I had to put in the work, but if I did, he’d help me.”

The Grind Behind the Glory



The road through NETC’s welding associate degree program wasn’t easy. Aiden faced many challenges, especially mastering pipe welding a notoriously difficult skill. “I couldn’t do it at first,” he admits. “I had to come in on extra days and just keep at it.” What made the difference? Mr. Botelho came in with him. “We’d coordinate to meet on weekends. He really gave his time.”

That kind of mentorship, coupled with Aiden’s tireless drive, made all the difference. He completed the program with skills in multiple processes including MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-core welding, and a solid foundation in tools, techniques, and professionalism.

A Milestone Achievement

Graduating with his associate degree in welding carries deep meaning for Aiden. “It feels like I accomplished something in life,” he says.

He hopes his journey paves the way for others. “Trades are booming right now. If you want to do it, you just have to put the time in. Have good work ethic and you’ll get a good outcome.”

Looking Forward: HVAC, Entrepreneurship, and Giving Back

Aiden’s journey isn’t stopping here. He plans to attend Florence-Darlington Technical College to pursue a degree in HVAC, a field where he plans to put his welding knowledge to use. “They do a lot of welding for installation and repairs,” he says. Eventually, he hopes to start his own HVAC company and maybe even run a small welding business on the side.

When asked where he sees himself in five years, Aiden’s vision is clear. “Probably living in Florence, working a commercial HVAC job, maybe on hospitals or big buildings. I want to do something that helps people.”

Words of Wisdom

To students considering welding or any skilled trade, Aiden’s advice is simple but powerful: “Have a good mindset. If you want to do something with your life, put in the time and effort, and you can do it.”

He’s also quick to credit those who supported him, especially his parents who encouraged him through challenging times, and his teachers who saw potential in him. “I’m proud of myself, but I’m thankful for them too.”

Full Circle



In Aiden Boan’s story, you see more than just a young man learning to weld. You see someone building a future with his own two hands. And that’s exactly the kind of foundation the world needs more of.

The 2025 Dillon High School graduation ceremony was a celebration of not just academic achievement, but also the power of early college access. Northeastern Technical College (NETC) proudly recognizes that all three of the top honor graduates at Dillon High also earned college credentials through NETC’s Dual Enrollment Program.

These accomplished students took advantage of NETC’s dual enrollment opportunities, completing college-level coursework while in high school. Their success demonstrates the strong academic partnership between Dillon High School and NETC, and the growing impact of dual enrollment in preparing students for higher education and the workforce.

In total, 11 Dillon High School seniors were recognized as NETC graduates during the commencement ceremony. They earned associate degrees and college certificates before receiving their high school diplomas.

“These students are not only graduating high school they’re graduating with a head start,” said a representative from NETC. “We are incredibly proud of their hard work and honored to have played a role in their academic journey.”

The Dual Enrollment Program at NETC allows high school students to earn college credits, saving time and money as they work toward a degree or career certification. The success of these Dillon High School students highlights the value of this partnership in supporting educational advancement and workforce readiness in the Pee Dee region.

For more information on dual enrollment opportunities at Northeastern Technical College, visit www.netc.edu.

More than 280 people gathered at Northeastern Technical College’s Cheraw campus on Tuesday June 3rd for a hiring event hosted by Schaeffler, one of the region’s leading employers. The event offered on-the-spot interviews, resume assistance, and job readiness support to help connect local talent with career opportunities.

Job seekers from across the area lined up throughout the day to speak directly with Schaeffler recruiters, many of whom conducted interviews on-site. Attendees also received guidance on polishing their resumes and preparing for the next steps in the hiring process.

Representatives from both Schaeffler and NETC were present to answer questions and provide information about job openings, training opportunities, and the skills in demand at Schaeffler's Cheraw facility.

The event was open to the public and marked a strong show of interest in manufacturing and technical careers in the region. Many participants left the event feeling hopeful about their chances for employment and future growth with Schaeffler.