Conkright earns welding credentials, secures employment with local union

Published on May 22, 2025

By Rachel Adkins

Throughout April, May, and June, Maysville Community and Technical College will feature 12 students who graduated in May 2025 and have committed to high-demand careers. 

This is a Going Pro initiative, which strives to bring awareness to the possibilities unlocked as a traditional-age college student with little to no experience in the workforce. 

With many different programs offered at MCTC, prospective students can enter the workforce right after finishing their credentials. 

Cat Conkright, 20, is a student of the Rowan Campus welding program. Beginning her student life with MCTC in the fall of 2023, Conkright recently completed her associate in applied science with a focus on welding. 

Just before graduating, Conkright began working with Millwrights Local 1076 (a union) located in Grayson. 

She discussed her reason for choosing MCTC over other welding institutions. 

“It was a cheap option, and I heard great things about the welding program,” Conkright remarked.

During her student life with MCTC, Conkright has assisted with Trade Wars, a competitive recruiting event for high school students interested in skilled trades. 

In her first year assisting with the event, Conkright was one of two welding students to be involved in a welding competition between Dr. Laura McCullough, president and CEO of MCTC, and Dr. Ryan Quarles, President of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System.

“It was really fun and it was a great experience to show her (McCullough) how to weld,” Conkright said. “It’s a lot of fun (to help with Trade Wars).”

Conkright’s story is a testament to the opportunities available through MCTC for students who are interested in high-demand trades.