Columbus FFA member Jack Yelk transforms recycled metal into a working tractor model, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship at the Dodge County Fair.
If you wander through the youth mechanical-science exhibits at the Dodge County Fair in Beaver Dam, Wis., this year, you just might find yourself stopping to admire a one-of-a-kind metal tractor — a masterpiece made from 120 recycled metal parts.
The creator is Jack Yelk of Columbus, Wis., a proud member of the Columbus FFA and a recent graduate of Columbus High School. Jack’s journey into welding began just two years ago in shop class. His first machine, a Lincoln tombstone stick welder, laid the foundation, but it was his second — a Titanium 125 flux core from Harbor Freight — that truly ignited his creativity.
Working from a modest garage setup powered by a single 120-volt outlet, Jack built a welding table from an old saw and began crafting small items like flowers and home décor. But in January 2025, he embarked on his most ambitious project yet: a fully articulated tractor modeled loosely after a Steiger.
“I didn’t do much in the winter,” Jack admits. “It’s hard to weld in a cold setting, and I was still in school. April, May, and June is when it really took shape.”
Jack sourced his materials from three key places: his uncle Doug’s welding shop dumpster, his dad Rick’s farm shop, and the Columbus High School metal class, where used practice plates were destined for the scrap bin — until Jack asked to repurpose them.
“I don’t think I’ve ever bought metal for my projects,” he said with a laugh.
The finished tractor features a hood that opens to reveal a detailed engine, removable duals, a hitch, and a power take-off. After welding, Jack sandblasted and clear-coated the piece for a polished finish.
Though he’s not selling his work yet — preferring to give pieces as gifts — Jack plans to continue welding while pursuing a mechanical engineering degree at UW-Madison. Until then, fairgoers can see his craftsmanship up close at the Dodge County Fair this weekend.
The fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025. Visitors can find Jack’s tractor and other 4-H and FFA projects in the youth building.
Source material for this article was from Dori Lichty, a farm wife, 4-H mom, and an excellent writer.