FORT PIERCE, Fla. (June 29, 2026) — Indian River State College proudly announces the permanent installation of its award-winning student-fabricated welding sculpture on the Fort Pierce campus, marking a powerful tribute to craftsmanship, service, and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Created by Welding Technology students at the College, the monumental stainless steel sculpture—honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—was originally designed as part of the Florida Department of Education’s statewide Welding Fabrication Challenge, commemorating America’s Semi-quincentennial. Following statewide recognition for its craftsmanship and symbolic design, the sculpture now stands as a lasting campus landmark and a testament to the power of career and technical education.
A Landmark Installation Rooted in Purpose
The sculpture is centrally installed between the College’s main administrative buildings and the Koblegard Student Union (KSU), where it will serve as a daily reminder of service, sacrifice, and the enduring values that define the nation.
Standing more than 12 feet tall and weighing approximately 1,000 pounds, the piece features a detailed representation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A six-foot sentinel figure—crafted from repurposed tools, gears, and industrial materials—stands in solemn tribute beneath twin stainless steel flags representing 1776 and the present day.
Every element of the sculpture reflects advanced technical skill and artistic vision, demonstrating the hands-on expertise cultivated through Indian River State College’s workforce training programs.
Student Achievement on Display
“This sculpture shows what our students are capable of — the skill, the dedication, and the character,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, president of Indian River State College. “It serves as a fitting tribute to 250 years of American sacrifice and service.”
The project challenged students to apply their skills in new and complex ways, pushing beyond traditional classroom experiences.
“It put them in situations they hadn’t gotten the opportunity to be in yet, but also pushed them pretty much to their limit,” said Welding instructor Walt Posten. “I would say after this, there’s nothing they’d run into in a shop that they didn’t see in this project.”
From concept to completion, students worked collaboratively to bring the sculpture to life—transforming raw materials into a meaningful artistic and historical statement.
“These students didn’t just learn a trade — they used it to say something meaningful about who we are as a country,” said Troy Shearer, Associate Dean of the School of Applied Technologies. “This project shows exactly what career and technical education looks like at its best. We couldn’t be prouder.”
From State Recognition to Lasting Legacy
The sculpture was first unveiled during the College’s Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies, where it stood as a powerful visual symbol of resilience and service.
Now permanently installed, the piece continues its journey—from a competition entry to an enduring tribute that connects history, craftsmanship, and education.
Through projects like this, Indian River State College remains committed to preparing students for high-demand careers while making meaningful contributions to the community. The installation reflects the College’s mission to combine hands-on learning with purpose-driven work that leaves a lasting impact.
ABOUT THE INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION
Indian River State College serves Florida’s Treasure Coast and Okeechobee Region, offering high-quality, affordable education through a wide range of academic and workforce training programs. The College is dedicated to student success, economic mobility, and meeting the evolving needs of the communities it serves.
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