Zackary Phelps

I grew up in beulah and have always been interested in the coal industry. After I graduated Lynnes Welding Training I was hoping to start a career at either Dakota Gasification Company, or Coteau. I was more intent about working at DGC rather than Coteau, because I know there is more potential for promotions and I believe the benefits are better. When there was no openings, I decided to apply for the Boilermakers Union. I worked at Lake View Services until I received my acceptance letter. I worked one outage at Minnkota Power co-op in Center, ND. I have been laid off for over a month, and I am starting to think maybe this isn’t the career for me. I would like a stable job with great benefits, I know Dakota Gasification is a great choice because my father, and grandfather both worked there until retirement. I love welding, and I know maintenance technicians do some welding. My father was a maintenance technician and told me about the work he did and it sounds like something I would enjoy. I would also like to do more than just welding, I feel like a maintenance technician position is a good fit for me. I am fascinated by the gasification process, and take pride to live in the same area it’s located. I would love to be a part of it.

• While at welding school I received welding certifications for 3/8 and 1 inch plates.
• I had certificates for flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead welding processes. Including SMAW, GMAW, and FCAW.
• I failed an attempt at a GTAW certification. But while working for the Boilermakers Union I practiced. I was taught by people with many years of experience. I believe I am capable of passing a GTAW test now.