FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) —
The Regional Occupational Program (ROP) and CTE initiatives, operated by the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, aim to equip high school students with real-world trade and technical skills. From welding to auto repair, these programs are reshaping the perception of trade careers — and preparing students for the workforce, or even entrepreneurship, right out of high school.
A Clovis West High School senior is sparking success through the power of skilled trades. Kyle Anderson, a student in the school’s Career Technical Education (CTE) Auto-Diesel Program, recently earned third place at the 2025 Sawdust and Sparks competition — an event showcasing the skills of more than 300 students across Fresno County.
Anderson says his interest in welding began at home. “When I was younger, I got a small welder and started building go-karts and minibikes in my backyard,” he said. “So I had a little bit of knowledge.”
That hobby quickly evolved into a passion, which he’s now turning into a business — making and selling jet ski parts no longer produced in the U.S., Anderson is mostly self-taught, learning many of his skills by watching YouTube videos.
The Sawdust and Sparks competition, hosted in April, challenged students to build a trailer with only a blueprint and material. Anderson and his team of three other high school students placed third, beating out 23 other teams.
“It shows how our skills can transfer to the real world,” Anderson said. “Especially being in a diesel classroom, I wasn’t around others welding every day. We were really curious to see how we stacked up against people who practice it all the time.”
His instructor, Ricky Jones, says Anderson’s dedication stood out from the start. “Words can’t explain what ROP did this year,” Jones said. “Giving students the opportunity to compete at this level gives them the confidence to tackle anything life throws at them.”
Anderson encourages other students to take the leap. “Don’t be afraid to invest in tools — and just take a chance. Go for it.”
