Fairview Students Tour Moran Iron Works and Industrial Arts Institute

April 17, 2026 – On a Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium Talent Tour, 17 students from Fairview High School toured the Industrial Arts Institute and Moran Iron Works in Onaway, gaining firsthand exposure to careers in welding, fabrication, and skilled trades.

Students began the day at the Industrial Arts Institute (IAI), where they learned about the private welding school’s 19-week training program and the certifications students can earn. After an overview of the program, students toured the welding lab and observed the current cohort in action during a “Fabrication Friday.”

During the visit, students also learned about scholarship opportunities available to those interested in attending IAI. One student shared, “I discovered a great opportunity for people who want to pursue welding.” Students were especially interested in learning about the different types of welds, metals, and the wide variety of projects that can be created through welding—including the discovery that a creative arts welding program existed so close to home.

The next stop was Moran Iron Works, where students saw large-scale projects in production, including a 66-foot Department of Natural Resources boat nearing completion. Students had the opportunity to tour the vessel and learn about the custom trailer being built to transport it to the Port of Calcite for launch.

Another highlight was seeing work underway for the Army Corps of Engineers and observing welders in action throughout the shop. As students explored the facility, they gained a greater understanding of the scale, complexity, and safety involved in industrial welding and fabrication.

The Talent Tour gave students a unique behind-the-scenes look at skilled trades careers and introduced them to exciting training and employment opportunities available right in Northeast Michigan.