RIVERTON, Wyo. — Central Wyoming College (CWC) has named longtime welding instructor Darryl Steeds as Professor Emeritus for 2026, recognizing his outstanding service, leadership, and lasting impact on students and technical education throughout Wyoming.
Steeds, who retired in May 2025 after 15 years at CWC, will officially receive the honor during the College’s graduation ceremony on May 15.
Professor Emeritus is among the highest honors bestowed by Central Wyoming College and is awarded to retired faculty members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to teaching, student success, and the mission of the institution. Steeds becomes the 39th individual to receive the distinction in the College’s 50-year history.
“I feel very, very lucky and very blessed to receive this honor from the College,” Steeds said. “I personally know some of the other Professor Emeritus recipients, and I know what quality individuals those men and women are. I take this honor very seriously.”
Before joining Central Wyoming College in 2010, Steeds spent decades working across the country as a professional welder, building refineries, power plants, and industrial systems throughout Texas, Wyoming, Colorado, Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Washington. Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Steeds discovered welding through agricultural mechanics classes and later completed a welding trade program at New Mexico State University.
Throughout his career in industry, Steeds specialized in pipe welding and alloy welding, working on major refinery and industrial construction projects. He eventually brought that real-world experience into the classroom at CWC, where he built a reputation as a hands-on instructor deeply committed to student success.
“When you love what you do, it’s not just a job,” Steeds said. “I loved welding. I jumped out of bed in the morning, excited to go to work.”
At CWC, Steeds helped modernize and strengthen the welding program by incorporating American Welding Society curriculum standards and emphasizing intensive one-on-one instruction. Under his leadership, the program became known for producing highly skilled graduates who entered careers across the welding, energy, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.
Former students now work throughout the United States in industries ranging from oil and gas to aerospace manufacturing, and several have gone on to launch successful welding businesses of their own.
Steeds said one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching was seeing students succeed long after leaving the classroom.
“There’s nothing better in the world than hearing from former students who are out there making a living and doing well,” he said.
In addition to teaching technical skills, Steeds was known for mentoring students personally and professionally, helping many navigate financial aid, career decisions, and the transition into the workforce. Colleagues and students alike praised his dedication, high standards, and ability to connect practical experience with classroom learning.
Steeds also worked extensively with regional high schools to promote trade education opportunities and encourage students to pursue careers in welding and skilled trades.
As he enters retirement, Steeds plans to spend more time fishing and working on personal welding projects, though he says his passion for the craft remains strong.
“I still have a burning desire for welding,” he said.
For more information about Central Wyoming College and its Career & Technical Education programs, visit www.cwc.edu.
