Sophia Fliegel

Sophia Fliegel

For Sophia Fliegel, finding the right path in higher education was not a straight line, but rather a process of discovery and determination. Originally from North Bend, Washington, Sophia began her college career at Montana State University in Bozeman. However, she quickly realized that it wasn’t the right fit. Seeking a more hands-on learning experience, she made the decision to transfer to MSU-Northern, drawn by its renowned welding program.

Welding had already been a part of Sophia’s life before college. During her senior year of high school, she took an introductory welding class and excelled so quickly that she bypassed the next level, jumping straight into the advanced course. Her natural talent and enthusiasm for the trade made it clear that welding was more than just a class—it was a career path she wanted to pursue.

Since transferring to Northern, Sophia has found herself immersed in a learning environment that continuously challenges and excites her. Unlike other programs she had considered, Northern’s welding curriculum offered a depth of knowledge and practical experience that she hadn’t encountered before. Even with her advanced high school training, she found herself learning new techniques, such as switching out welding wire and mastering various cutting and brazing methods.

Sophia is also enrolled in a machining class, an additional skill set that she hopes will open more doors in the fabrication industry. Her goal is to land a job in fabrication, but she is keeping an open mind and is eager to gain as much experience as possible in different aspects of the welding field.

Beyond the technical skills, what Sophia enjoys most about welding is the camaraderie in the shop. She describes the environment as welcoming and supportive, where teamwork and humor go hand in hand with hard work. Being one of the few women in the program has never made her feel out of place—rather, she feels like she has a group of big brothers always ready to lend a hand.

When she graduates, Sophia will leave Northern with both her welding qualifications and an associate degree, well-prepared to enter the workforce. Whether in fabrication or another welding-related field, she is ready to take on whatever opportunities come her way. With her passion, skill, and determination, the future looks bright for Sophia Flegel as she continues forging her own path in the welding industry

 

Find out more about the MSUN Welding program!