Howard Bay, a Welding Technology instructor at Southeast Community College, is retiring Jan. 30 after a 37-year career.

Bay began employment at SCC on Jan. 1, 1978. His first assignment was to teach welding classes for the Nebraska Department of Corrections, including the Nebraska State Penitentiary. He then taught welding on SCC’s Lincoln Campus in 1991 before transferring to the Milford Campus in November 1996. There he served as co-chair of the program for many years.

Bay also was very willing, when asked, to teach continuing education welding classes in surrounding communities such as Crete and Beatrice, which he did for more than 10 years.

“Howard Bay has partnered with the Continuing Education Division to provide industrial welding training,” said Carol Gustafson, assistant director of Continuing Education. “The training helps workers master the theory and learn the practical application of welding techniques and equipment.”

He served on the Milford Campus Safety Team for many years. In 2003 he was honored for his 25 years of service to the College. Ten years later he received the “Al” Havener Award for his 35 years of service.

He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served from 1969-1971.

Gustafson said Bay trained numerous employees through the years on how to set up and maintain welding equipment, welding safety, proper materials, and the techniques of welding in on-site environments and situations.

“Howard has always had the company’s best interest in mind when providing training,” Gustafson said. “He has helped us with multiple trainings for companies such as Neapco, Farmland, Kraft, Exmark, and Bunge Milling. SCC is proud of the welding service Howard has provided the communities during his career. His level of professionalism is one of a kind.”

Colleagues say Bay was very dedicated to teaching, and that he loved working with his students.