Imagine learning your trade not in a classroom, but on a barge on the Mississippi River. That’s exactly what SPC welding students experienced during a hands-on workshop at Harriet Island Regional Park. This wasn’t just about welding – it was about discovering an entire world of opportunities connected to America’s most iconic river.

Did you know the Mississippi River supports 1.4 million jobs across its 2,300 miles? From marine construction to underwater welding, barge repair to environmental restoration, the river is a hub for skilled trades. Our students didn’t just hear about these careers; they saw them in action.

The workshop, hosted by Living Lands & Waters through their Mississippi River Institute (MRI), blended ecology, economics, and industry. Students explored how the river powers commerce and conservation, watched a video narrated by Mike Rowe highlighting river-based careers, and met professionals from Upper River Services and JF Brennan, two leaders in barge operations and marine construction on the Upper Mississippi River.

A floating barge with a wooden deck and railings moored along a riverbank. The background shows autumn trees, modern buildings, and a cloudy sky.
An indoor classroom or wooden walls and ceiling. Several people are seated at tables while someone stands at the front speaking. The room has framed photos on the walls and supplies on the tables.
Three students leaning over a wooden table, working on a hands-on activity involving small objects, rubber bands, and wooden pieces. Red chairs and large windows are visible in the background.
Several students gathered around a table inside a wooden-paneled room, examining clear containers filled with various grains and seeds arranged in a row. A round window and electronic equipment are visible in the background.
A student wearing a brown jacket and gloves carrying a large coil of thick orange rope on an outdoor deck. The deck has metal railings and a building structure with an upper balcony.

In 2025, MRI hosted 27 workshops for over 500 high school and college students aboard its traveling barge in Saint Paul. This MRI travels to other river locations such as the Quad Cities, St. Louis, and Memphis, and is scheduled to return to Saint Paul in the summer or fall of 2027. SPC brought around 20 first-year welding students to this unique learning experience. Besides education, Living Lands & Waters is a strong environmental organization that has removed over 14 million pounds of trash—primarily from riverbanks—in 30 U.S. inland waterways since 1998!

SPC Welding students were excited about the workshop.

I was blown away by the plethora of knowledge in wildlife conservation and welding. I will DEFINITELY consider Upper River Services as a potential employer. I really appreciate the demonstration of conservation efforts in the workplace and the genuine commitment to maintaining a sustainable environment. Thank you for such an amazing opportunity.

Anna

Welding Student

I will use today’s information to continue working towards my career by digging deeper into some of the different companies that help with Commercial Underwater Welding. My goal is hopefully to become an underwater welder, so I will continue to be open-minded and teachable, as some of the representatives mentioned.

Connor

Welding Student

These aren’t just jobs, they’re adventures. Picture yourself welding underwater, repairing barges, or building infrastructure that keeps America moving.

Read more about SPC’s commitment to this maritime training initiative, including our Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce and Education Designation.