AWC Welding partners with local family to create custom bicycles
February 27, 2025Universally designed sidecar bicycle accommodates wheelchair user
Yuma, Ariz. (February 27, 2025) – The Arizona Western College Welding program recently helped a local family build their second custom adaptive bicycle to support children with complex medical needs. The universally designed bicycle incorporates a front-loading bicycle attachment that is custom built to transport a wheelchair user with medical equipment.
In 2022, Isaac and Alexis Liggett approached AWC Welding with designs for a sidecar bicycle that would allow their five-year-old son, AJ, to enjoy family bike rides without having to leave his wheelchair. The team, led by Professor of Welding Technology Bobby Alvarado, jumped at the opportunity and spent the next four months working on the project.
“Seeing my students apply the skills they've learned in real-world projects is incredibly rewarding,” Alvarado said. “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to not only producing skilled welding professionals but also to having a tangible, positive effect on families in the broader community we serve. As we continue to serve our community, we look forward to collaborating with families such as the Liggett family, as it is a great honor to do so.”
After the successful completion of AJ’s bicycle, AWC Welding and the Liggett family began a second custom bike for Mason Drake, a friend of the Liggett Family, which they delivered to the family on February 13. The team decorated the front-loader with laser cut images that reflect Mason’s love for police, including a police car, badge, and handcuffs.
As the custom projects developed, each became a true community effort. Expenses were covered by the Liggett’s company, Liggett Electrical Services LLC, with labor and welding materials provided by the AWC Welding program. Gene with the Yuma Bicycle Coalition offered expertise and assistance. In addition, Micargi Bicycles supplied the custom bicycle frame at cost, and Psycho Sammi Cyclery LLC and One Above Cruisers, based out of Mesa, both donated accessories for Mason’s bicycle.
“We’ve been a part of some awesome projects with folks that provide accessibility,” Alexis Liggett shared. “This has brought disability inclusion due to growing universal design that allows everyone to participate. Everyone that’s been a part of growing accessibility and bringing universal design has been so proud of their work and contribution. They’ve found so much fulfillment and happiness so with that I say, ‘Walk in our wheels, you won’t regret it!’”
The Liggett family’s collaboration with AWC did not stop with custom bicycles. In 2023, they began coordinating with Nursing professor Barbara Deol to give presentations in her nursing classes. The Liggett’s presentation, Journey to Home Health, introduces the students to AJ and walks them through his complex needs, from labor and delivery to everyday life.
The partnership between AWC and the Liggett family exemplifies the institution’s commitment to serve the Yuma community and its families while offering students rich educational opportunities grounded in real-world scenarios.
To view pictures of the front-loader bicycle designed for Mason Drake, visit AWC’s photo gallery here.
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Contact:
Lorraine Stofft
Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of the AWC Foundation
Arizona Western College
lorraine.stofft@azwestern.edu
(928) 314-9595