Scott Quick is a dedicated veteran, skilled welder, and passionate educator committed to empowering others. As the founder and Executive Director of Forged by Valor, a non-profit organization, Scott channels his unique blend of military leadership and welding expertise to provide veterans with valuable skills and a supportive community.

Scott's 18-year military career in the U.S. Army, encompassing both active duty and the New York Army National Guard, is defined by exceptional leadership and tactical proficiency. He deployed to combat five times, participating in countless direct action missions and receiving numerous awards for his service. His experience in high-pressure environments honed his ability to lead and make critical decisions. In recent years, Scott has been leading Rochester Arc+Flame Center's Welding and Fabrication program, overseeing all aspects from curriculum planning to admissions, demonstrating his expertise in welding education.

Beyond his military service, Scott is a highly skilled welder and fabricator with over 20 years of experience. He is a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) through the American Welding Society (AWS), demonstrating his commitment to excellence in the field. His hands-on experience in industrial and commercial settings, coupled with his experience as a Welding Instructor, gives him a unique perspective on the welding industry.

Forged by Valor is more than just an organization for Scott; it's a deeply personal mission born from his own struggles and triumphs. After leaving active duty, he experienced a profound sense of displacement and lack of purpose. For years, he felt adrift, searching for direction and a place to belong. This sense of loss was further compounded by a severe medical incident, specifically a stroke at the age of 30, which ultimately forced him to re-evaluate his life and career. The physical and mental challenges that followed left him feeling like he could no longer embody the soldier he once was.

In this period of transition, Scott sought a new outlet and a path forward. He found it in Rochester Arc+Flame Center's 20-week welding and fabrication program. It was here, surrounded by a diverse group of 16 individuals united by a common goal, that he rediscovered a sense of belonging and purpose. He forged strong bonds with fellow veterans, including Ben Corke, who would later become Forged by Valor's Co-founder. The program's structure, the camaraderie, and the tangible skill development provided Scott with a renewed sense of direction and healing. This transformative experience—the journey from feeling lost to finding purpose in welding and community—became the driving force behind Forged by Valor. Scott is now dedicated to not only helping veterans find a renewed sense of identity and belonging but also to supporting them on their individual paths. Having navigated his own struggles, he is passionate about offering guidance and support, whether it's navigating the complexities of the VA system, providing a listening ear, or offering support in dealing with challenges such as PTSD or substance abuse. He is committed to creating that same supportive and empowering environment for other veterans, helping them to learn a valuable trade and build fulfilling lives.