Sparks of Hope

At Sparks of Hope, our mission is to empower challenged or less privileged youth by teaching and inspiring them through the art of welding and skilled trades. Through our programs, we aim to instill motivation and self-confidence, enabling them to overcome challenges and become strong, influential members of society, capable of becoming great leaders. By offering comprehensive study skills and invaluable hands-on knowledge, Sparks of Hope equips attendees with the tools they need to excel. Our organization provides transformative experiences, including powerful one-time career days featuring augmented reality welding and inspiring speeches from successful motivational speakers. Additionally, we offer a program with immersive welding tutorials and an educational curriculum that can grant individuals the credentials necessary to pursue a career. Sparks of Hope is committed to supporting deserving individuals and facilities through grants and scholarships with our sponsors, fostering continued growth and expertise within the trades. We believe that every student at Sparks of Hope is a winner, and we are dedicated to igniting sparks of hope that will illuminate their path to success.

Meet Mr. Ryan Compton, a dedicated professional with over 35 years of experience in the welding industry. As the Director of Youth Skill Education at Sparks of Hope, he has been instrumental in providing education and consulting services to the welding community. Mr. Compton's journey began in 1986 when he started volunteering at job fairs through the Scouts of America organization. In 1994, he took his passion for welding to the next level by teaching at the community college level for local craft unions in the entertainment industry. This experience led him to pursue a career as a welding supervisor and special effects technician serving the entertainment field. Throughout his career, Mr. Compton has recognized the need for skilled trades and the lack thereof in today's society. With a personal passion for teaching and a deep understanding of mechanical and kinetic learning styles, he founded Sparks of Hope in 2021. Through this organization, Mr. Compton aims to inspire and empower young individuals to pursue a rewarding career in the welding field, providing them with a path to personal accomplishment and self-stability.