The NIC Sentinel

Issue date: 11/16/09 Section: Life

Media Credit: Desire` Aguirre Jesse Potter weilds torch like a paint brush.

Media Credit: Desire` Aguirre The welding shop uses masks and shields for safety.

Media Credit: Desire` Aguirre Potter finishes the job.

Stepping into the welding shop, located on Industrial Way, is like walking into a steam punk gallery. The constant banging of hammers and the sparks of light create a surrealistic atmosphere.

Jesse Potter, 18, 4'10" and 100 pounds sopping wet, is not your average welder. In fact, she's one of two women enrolled in the welding program at NIC. For her, the welding torch is like a paintbrush, and gives her the power to create beautiful things.

"I want to make art and maybe sell it someday at art and barter fairs," Potter said.

Potter attended Sandpoint Charter School and grudgingly entered Sandpoint High.

She did not like the mainstream scene and the open hostilities she encountered at the high school.

Her older sister attended Lake Pend Orielle (LPO), so she got on the waiting list.

"I finally got in during my sophomore year," Potter said. "The alternative school has a bad reputation, but really, the high school is way worse. LPO helped me learn and understand things. We were like a big family."

Potter became the president of her class during her senior year and took leadership training.

She participated in March against Meth and volunteered at the thrift store operated by senior citizens and LPO students.

Jan Fitzgerald, LPO science teacher, said she enjoyed having Potter in her class.

"She always showed up to class with a smile," Fitzgerald said, "and worked real hard."

When Potter made a decision to continue her education, she filled out oodles of paperwork and received four scholarships.

"I started welding at Sandpoint High," Potter said, "and am really glad to be in the welding program at NIC."

Potter said that she is treated with respect by the other welders in the program and being a tiny woman has not caused her any problems.

"The guys are really helpful and supportive," Potter said, "and the other girl, Louise, is a real sweetheart."

Potter commutes from Sandpoint four days a week, 50 miles each way, to attend the program, which doesn't leave her much time for anything else.

She said her favorite band is Avenge Sevenhold, and that she likes to spend time with her family and friends.

"We're a really close knit family," Potter said. "I have three sisters and a nephew."

All the Potters get a family tattoo, Potter said, and as soon as she can afford it, she plans on getting the family trademark with a freebird.

Earl Dreibach, welding instructor, said that things are going great in class.

Trevor Anderson, 26, commutes with Potter. He also attends the welding program.

"Jesse does a good job," Trevor said, "and is intent on getting better. I admire that she wants to improve her skills and do something she enjoys doing."

Potter said she hopes to continue her education, but might have to quit because of a family illness.

"My advice to LPO students, or any high school student," Potter said, "is to go to college and get an education."

"Don't take a year off. I've seen too many friends say that, and they never end up going," Potter said.

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