George West Senior, Robert “Robbie” Barta Jr., at center received a scholarship from the Auxiliary of Swinney Switch. Pictured from left: Auxiliary president, Colleen Lockard, Mary Alice Jones, Lynette Barta, Robbie Barta, Robert Barta, Sr. and Terese Simonson.
Since 1999, the Auxiliary has awarded scholarships to high school students who plan to continue their education. Ten years ago, Barta’s sister, Brandi, received the first scholarship, said Mary Alice Jones, Auxiliary member. “To see Robbie all grown up and receiving the scholarship makes me very proud,” Jones said. Brandi Barta graduated from George West High School in 1999 and completed her dental hygienist program at Coastal Bend College.
Robbie Barta plans to attend Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Waco. TSTC offers more than 100 technical associate degree and certificate programs that offer extensive hands-on experience in laboratories housing industry standard equipment.
Barta will begin with classes in welding and then take advanced coursework in pipe inspection. Barta’s long-term career goals are to become a pipe inspector. “This rigorous and challenging field will suit Robbie well as everyone who knows him comments on his willingness to work hard,” said Elizabeth Simonson, another Auxiliary member.
Barta’s skill in welding is readily apparent and he looks forward to the challenges that Texas State Technical College will afford him, Simonson continued. “His passion for welding has been apparent since eighth grade.”
Barta has a reputation as being a “team player” and has been an active participant in the George West High School Band and in the ag classes. “Robbie is just a well-rounded, nice kid and we were glad to award him with this year’s scholarship,” Jones said.
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