Texas Border Business
By South Texas College
Kristina Zuniga walks into class every day knowing she’s one of the only women in the room and she’s proud of that.
The 30-year-old South Texas College student is currently pursuing an associate degree in Welding at the Starr County campus. While being the only woman in her class might intimidate some, Zuniga says it motivates her to push even harder.
“Being the only girl in class doesn’t bother me,” Zuniga said. “They respect me, and I think I’ve earned my place here.”
Her passion for welding began with her love for art. A naturally creative person, Zuniga has always enjoyed painting and decorating, but wanted something more hands-on. Welding gave her the focus and purpose she was looking for.
“I didn’t really have anyone tell me to try welding. I just thought, maybe I should learn a trade that’s creative, but also stable,” she said. “The first time I saw how the metal melts, how you have to follow the process, I was hooked.”
Zuniga lives just five minutes from the Starr County campus and said choosing STC was an easy decision.
“There were days I felt like maybe I wasn’t doing the right thing, but my aunt would always give me little words of encouragement,” Zuniga said. “She helped me remember why I started, and that made all the difference.”
That same support helped her through what she described as one of her toughest semesters – a minimester welding course, a short-term, but intense class, that pushed her limits. Nonetheless, she stayed committed and finished strong.
Zuniga credits the Starr County campus environment for keeping her motivated. From holiday events to hands-on workshops, she said the sense of community makes a difference.
“When they host campus events, it brings everyone together,” she said. “It’s fun, but it also reminds us that we’re all in this together.”
She remains active by volunteering and helping with events when she can.
“I always try to help out after class or give input when I can,” she said. “I love being involved. It’s just about balancing it all.”
After graduation, Zuniga hopes to work in the refineries in Houston or Corpus Christi to gain experience and build her savings. Her long-term goal is to open her own business designing and building industrial furniture.
“I get inspired by the people around me,” she said. “Everyone throws out ideas in class, and when we mix them together, something really cool comes out. That’s what I want to keep doing.”
Zuniga also hopes to inspire other women to consider careers in Welding.
“If a girl starts the Welding program and thinks she can’t do it, I’d tell her Put your mind to it and you’ll get it. It’s so rewarding at the end,” she said.
She added that reflecting on how far she’s come keeps her motivated.
“I remind myself of who I used to be when I didn’t have much direction,” Zuniga said. “Now I look at where I’m at and what I’ve accomplished, and I just want to keep getting better.”
For more information on STC’s Welding program, visit southtexascollege.edu.
Information source: STC
