College of Technology’s Rost to retire

After 35 years of service at Idaho State University’s College of Technology, Bob Rost, coordinator of the Welding program is retiring.

Rost, originally from Wendell, Idaho, has not only been a dedicated welding instructor but is also an alumnus. He graduated from the welding program in 1966 with a Technical Certificate and went to work at the Idaho National Laboratory. Bob always wanted to be a teacher, leading him to three years of teaching in the Army at the Aberdeen Providing Ground in Maryland. During this time he also coordinated the efforts in rewriting the Army Technical Manual in Welding. His teaching career continued following a call from Harold Garbett, the then Assistant Director of the School of Vocational Technical Education, asking him to return to Idaho State University to teach in the Welding program. He accepted the position and in January of 1972, he started.

When asked what the highlights to his career have been, Rost states, “Seeing the program develop into the finest pipe welding program in the United States has been rewarding.” He adds, “Companies recognize they can hire quality craftsmen from this program.” 

Bob has enjoyed teaching the sons and daughters of his previous students, demonstrating to him the faith they have in their education and opportunities in industry. “I have had the pleasure of teaching students,” states Rost in summarizing his 35 years, “I thank Idaho State University for the many years that I have been able to do this.”  

Rost’s retirement plans include spending a lot of time traveling.