President Jackson honors youngest welder in Aroostook County

CARIBOU – Last week, Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, presented Jesse Taggett with a sentiment recognizing his third place finish at the SkillsUSA Conference in the welding division. Taggett was the youngest certified welder in Aroostook County since first becoming certified at age 12, learning from his father, Rick. 

“Jesse is really a stand-up young man, and a great welder. I was honored to recognize his accomplishments at the SkillsUSA Conference. To me, he’s a great example of young people in The County who are committed to learning skills that make our economy tick,” said President Jackson. “He’s been working at mastering his trade from such a young age, and I’m proud that his dedication is being recognized on a national level. It’s students like Jesse and instructors like his father, Rick, that are a testament to why we must support trade education programs for all ages. The desire to learn and succeed at welding and other crafts like it exists right in our communities. As long as I’m in the legislature, I’ll continue to do everything I can to ensure that students have access to great career and technical education programs.”

SkillsUSA is a national partnership of students, teachers, and industry that serves middle-school, high-school, and post-secondary students through leadership and skills development opportunities. The SkillsUSA National Conference was held in Atlanta last month. 

During the 130th Legislature, President Jackson championed trade education opportunities, including providing funding to ensure Maine’s Career and Technical Education programs have the resources they need to prepare their graduates for the workforce. He also supported legislation to expand career exploration programs so all students can find their way to a good-paying job right here in Maine. 

A Legislative Sentiment is a significant expression by the Maine Legislature in recognition of civic and public achievements. Jesse has been invited to visit the legislature and receive an official recognition when the next legislative session begins in January 2023. 

President Jackson and Jesse Taggett at the Taggett family’s home in Woodland. 

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