Noah Rael, a senior at Questa High School, is preparing for graduation this May and is ready to take on a career in the trades.
Describing himself as caring, funny, and kind, Rael carries himself with confidence along with a respectful nature addressing his elders as ma’am and sir. Growing up exploring nature along with his parents, Pamela and JR Lee Rael and younger sister Adrienne, Rael developed a deep love for everything outdoors.
Since childhood, Rael has been immersed in hunting, fishing, camping, and riding horses. These activities were always done with his father which allowed for a strong bond to form.
“I really look up to my dad,” Rael said.
Rael also cherishes a close relationship with his paternal grandfather, Lee Rael. While he comes from a large family filled with cousins, aunts, and uncles, the influence of his father and “Papo Lee” remains a cornerstone of his life.
A three-sport athlete, Rael plays football and basketball, but his passion for baseball stands out. Having played T-ball under his father’s coaching—who currently serves as the high school’s assistant baseball coach—Rael has mastered the demanding role of catcher. “My dad has coached me for years in baseball and he was a catcher himself. He has taught me how to be a good catcher.”
The leadership, concentration, and mental toughness required behind the home plate have translated into Rael’s personal life. He recalled the impact of losing his close friend, Josiah Mandonado, noting, “I really looked up to Josiah. He was a really good buddy of mine.”
Like many students in small communities, Rael has balanced various activities, including FFA and rodeo, where he participated in ranch bronc—an event requiring agility and strength.
He credits his math teacher, Mr. McDonald, for helping him find confidence in the subject. “It wasn’t until Mr. McDonald took the time to teach me one-on-one math skills that I learned to love the subject,” Rael said.
Looking ahead, Rael is determined to see the trades thrive. After taking a welding class and practicing on the side, he discovered a true calling.
“I want to keep the tradition of the trades going,” Rael said. “I know that I like it enough to pursue a career in and it’s something I’ve become passionate about.”
His post-graduation plans are set: he intends to spend a half-semester obtaining his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) before attending Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) for a welding certificate. “I want to get my CDL just as a back-up.” His ultimate goal is to work for Sandia National Laboratories or Los Alamos National Laboratory as a welder.
While Rael is excited to explore the world beyond Questa, he remains proud of his roots. “I love my hometown and will definitely miss home,” he said.
As he prepares for the next chapter, his advice to the younger generation is simple: “Never give up on the goal you are trying to achieve.”
