Erie lost a true leader this week with the death of Chet Wesley.

Chet's name might not have been well known in the broader community. But to local welders -- and those who manage manufacturing and construction businesses -- Chet was a crucial figure.

When the Regional Skill Center in Summit Township closed its welding program a few years back, Chet -- knowing that Erie companies still needed a pipeline of trained welders -- worked diligently to make sure welding education did not disappear from the local landscape.

He pressed everyone he knew -- including yours truly -- to raise awareness for his pet issue. And he ultimately was able to work with the Tri State Business Instite to create a new welding lab. I had the pleasure of visiting Chet's lab on more than a few occasions, and it was clear that he was proud of the fact that he was able to muster up the resources to bring a formal welding training program back to Erie.

The lab helped more than a few displaced IP workers get back on their feet. It helped hundreds of people find jobs at companies such as Eriez Magnetics and Erie Shipbuilding Co. And it provided Erie with a crew of newly trained workers to fill jobs in a high-demand field.

If you knew Chet Wesley, you are familiar with what he accomplished for the Erie community.

If you didn't, then you should know that his was a life that made a difference.