Editor’s note: This is the fifth installment of an eight-part series highlighting graduating high school students in Garfield County.

Rifle High School senior Colton Shoup is a welder through and through — following in his father’s footsteps, building on a family tradition, and preparing to take the reins at Shoup’s Welding Service, LLC one day. After graduation, he plans to gain hands-on experience at a local welding shop before partnering with his dad to continue the family business.

Here are his responses to the Post Independent’s graduate profile questions.

Q: What is the most important thing you’ve learned during your four years of high school?
A: One of the most valuable lessons I learned in high school was the importance of planning ahead, especially when it comes to your class schedule. If you know the career path you want to pursue, it’s crucial to map out your coursework early to align with your goals. For me, that meant enrolling in every welding class available, both at Rifle High School and through concurrent enrollment at Colorado Mountain College. By doing this, I was able to gain a head start on technical training, earn college credits, and build a strong foundation in welding before even graduating high school. This proactive approach helped me stay focused, manage my time wisely, and feel more confident in my career readiness. It also gave me a sense of purpose, knowing that every class I took was a step closer to my future. I encourage younger students to think ahead, talk to counselors, and take advantage of opportunities that can prepare them for the workforce or further education. Whether your goals involve a trade, a degree, or entrepreneurship, having a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference in achieving success and staying motivated throughout high school.

Q: What motivated you most to do well in high school?
A: My parents have always been my biggest motivators and strongest supporters. They consistently pushed me to work hard, stay focused, and do my best in everything I attempted. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to set high goals and the determination to meet them. They knew that I wanted to follow a hands-on career path and always supported my passion for welding. My dad especially served as both a role model and a mentor—his work ethic, craftsmanship, and dedication to his business inspired me every day. My mom was always there to encourage me, keep me organized, and remind me of the bigger picture when things got stressful. Beyond my parents, the idea of graduating and starting my own career helped me stay on track. Even during tough times, thinking about my future in welding and the possibility of running the family business gave me the drive to keep pushing forward. I’ve always believed that when you have a clear goal and people who believe in you, you can overcome just about any challenge. Their support and my own ambitions have helped shape who I am and where I’m headed.

Q: What will you miss about high school?
A: As I prepare to graduate, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. I’ve made so many great memories throughout high school—whether it was hanging out with friends, working in the welding shop, or taking part in school events. I’ll definitely miss the familiar routines, the laughter in the hallways, and the friendships I’ve built over the years. High school was a place where I grew not just academically, but personally as well. However, while I’ll miss those moments, I’m also really excited for what lies ahead. There’s something empowering about knowing that I have a clear direction and a plan to achieve my goals. I look forward to being in a real-world work environment where I can apply what I’ve learned, continue improving, and take on new challenges. Starting my welding career is more than just a job—it’s the beginning of building a life for myself, contributing to my community, and preparing to take over a business that means a lot to my family. So even though it’s hard to say goodbye to high school, I’m ready to take that next step and embrace everything the future holds.

Q: Where are your post-graduation plans taking you, and why?
A: After high school, my main goal is to become a certified welder and carry on a family tradition by following in my dad’s footsteps. Welding has always been more than just a job to me—it’s a skill, an art, and a way of life that I’ve been exposed to from a young age. Watching my dad run his business, Shoup’s Welding Service, LLC, showed me the pride and dedication it takes to succeed in this trade. My first step is to work for a local welding shop, where I can gain hands-on experience, learn from seasoned professionals, and continue building the skills that will shape my career. Spending a few years in the field will allow me to develop a deeper understanding of the trade, including technical expertise and customer relations. After gaining that experience, my ultimate dream is to return home and become a partner with my dad in his business. I want to help him grow the company, maintain the high standards he’s known for, and eventually take over the operation when he retires. It’s important to me that I continue the legacy he’s built and ensure that Shoup’s Welding Service remains a respected name in our community.

Q: What do you most look forward to in your future?
A: Looking ahead, I’m filled with anticipation and pride as I get ready to begin my welding career and work toward eventually running our family business. There’s a real sense of fulfillment that comes from working in a field you’re passionate about, and for me, welding has always felt like the right fit. The idea of taking the skills I’ve learned and putting them to use in the real world is exciting. I’m ready to be part of a team, to keep learning on the job, and to earn the respect of my coworkers and clients. More than anything, I look forward to the day when I can step into a leadership role alongside my dad. Being able to partner with him, learn from his decades of experience, and one day carry on the name of Shoup’s Welding Service, LLC is both an honor and a dream. I understand it will take time, hard work, and dedication, but I’m committed to that path. With the support of my family and the preparation I’ve had so far, I feel ready to take on whatever comes next and build a future I can be proud of.