May 7, 2025

A love affair with welding leads soon-to-be Ferris State grad to a bright future in industry

Soon-to be Ferris State University graduate Ella Wanke traces her love of welding back to high school when an influential figure pointed her toward what will become her career.

“I just remember that as soon as I started welding in high school, I fell in love with it,” Wanke said. “I thought that I would like a hands-on career that allows me to be creative, and welding gives you that.”

That influential figure helping guide Wanke was no ordinary teacher or guidance counselor.

“My dad (John) was the one who really got me interested in welding during high school,” the Cheboygan native said. “He encouraged me to try it. He fully supported me throughout high school, and when I decided to go to Ferris for Welding Engineering Technology. My dad was a paraprofessional at my high school, so welding has always been something we have in common and enjoy.”

Wanke will graduate from Ferris State’s College of Engineering Technology on Friday, May 9, with a Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology as she wraps up her four-year experience.

After graduating from Cheboygan Area High School, Wanke did her homework, identifying the higher education destination that was ideal for her.

Coming from a small town, Ferris State quickly felt like home.

“I chose Ferris State mainly because it is so well known for its Welding Engineering Technology program,” she said. “But I also appreciate that Ferris has smaller class sizes, which means you get to know your professors and classmates and feel valued as a student. I also like the overall atmosphere of the Ferris campus, which makes it feel like home.”

As a Bulldog, she discovered a hands-on, vibrant academic program with an infrastructure that could set her up for success.

“Ferris State has given me many opportunities to not only further my education but also help me advance my career,” Wanke said. “My experience at Ferris wasn’t always easy, but I have learned a lot about myself, and Ferris has helped me grow.”

The day-to-day influential people, in part foundational to Wanke’s academic success, include the faculty who were there for her and her peers daily.

“I am immensely grateful to all of the faculty and staff of the Ferris State University welding program for their support and guidance,” she said. “They have invested their time and knowledge in me for the last four years, and I have learned various valuable skills I will use in my future career. I would tell anyone who is considering Ferris State to go. Ferris has brought me so many opportunities. I have met so many amazing people and had so many amazing experiences. I cannot imagine going to college anywhere other than Ferris.”

While she’d advocate for Ferris State as a higher education choice, Wanke would encourage anyone considering a degree and career in welding to try it.

“Welding is an amazing career, and I have had so many amazing experiences and met so many great people because of it. Welding allows you to constantly learn something new, so you truly never get bored,” she said. “Even if you are a female and you want to pursue a career in welding, you should go for it.”

Wanke added, “I have learned that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.”

She already has a job lined up with Caterpillar, the company she interned with last summer. Wanke will start in Illinois as part of a three-year rotational program. The company offered her the three-year opportunity after her internship at its South Milwaukee, Wisconsin location.

Founded in 1925, Caterpillar is a construction, mining and engineering equipment manufacturer – a major construction equipment manufacturer.

On the eve of commencement, Ella considers those people near and dear to her who have been at her side along the way – including her dad, John; her mom, Sara; and her sister, Callie.

“I owe a special thank you to my parents and my sister,” Wanke said. “They have supported me in every way possible, and without them, graduating with my Welding Engineering Technology degree would not be possible. I want to thank everyone who always believed in me, no matter what, and gave me all of their support and love. I will miss Ferris, but I am so excited for the next chapter of life.”