BRYAN COUNTY, Oklahoma – Two seniors at Silo High School are shaping their futures by mastering a skilled trade and serving their neighbors. Cedar Cloyd and Aaron Dean, longtime friends since kindergarten, are enrolled in the welding program at Kiamichi Technology Center while also volunteering as firefighters with West Bryan County Fire.
Welding education rooted in family tradition
Both students say their fathers sparked their interest in welding. “My dad is a welder and I’ve always had an interest for welding,” Cloyd explained. Dean added, “I just learned how to weld for my dad. When I got the opportunity to come here, it opened a whole new door for me.” The hands‑on training at Kiamichi Tech provides them with certification that can lead to well‑paid jobs in construction, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
Volunteer firefighting: a family legacy
Outside the shop, Cloyd and Dean answer calls as volunteer firefighters for West Bryan County Fire. Dean’s family has a deep history of service: “Growing up, my mom, dad, and my stepdad were all volunteer firefighters at West Bryan County,” he said. Cloyd’s mother, a travel nurse, also inspired his desire to help others. “I want to be like her. I want to be able to go out and help people with everything that they need,” he said.
Jack Brown, the welding instructor at Kiamichi, praised their dedication. “They are driven about helping their community and helping their fellow man, which is part of a maturity level that you don’t see in a lot of young people,” Brown noted.
Faith, service, and future plans
Both seniors emphasize the spiritual aspect of their volunteer work. Dean said, “If all I got to do is sit there and comfort the family during their worst times, I’m going to do my best at it. I’ll sit there. I’ll pray for them.” Cloyd echoed the sentiment, adding, “When somebody’s down and needs help, I want to be able to help them.” After graduation, the pair plans to attend the fire academy while continuing to hone their welding skills, positioning themselves for dual careers in public safety and the trades.
Community impact
The story of Cloyd and Dean highlights a growing trend among young Oklahomans who combine vocational education with civic service. Their example encourages other students to consider pathways that blend practical skill development with a commitment to neighborly care, reinforcing the values of hard work, faith, and family that define Bryan County.
Local leaders and parents have praised the program, noting that skilled‑trade training and volunteer fire service both address critical needs in the region. As the demand for qualified welders rises and rural fire departments rely on volunteers, stories like this underscore the importance of supporting educational partnerships and community‑service opportunities.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
