Welding Students Showcase Their Skills

A Platform for Future Welders

The Behind the Mask competition, hosted by the American Welding Society (AWS), is designed to help welding students test their skills and gain real-world experience. With over 157,000 welding professionals nearing retirement and 80,000 welding jobs needing to be filled annually until 2029, the event highlights the importance of training the next generation of welders.

Participants faced tasks like blueprint reading and stick and MIG welding under time constraints, simulating the pressure of job interviews and real-world projects. Aleasha Hladilek Falter, a welding instructor at Northwood Technical College, emphasized how the competition challenges students while building their confidence and abilities.

Inspiring Careers in Welding

The competition also aims to attract more talent to the welding industry, including women, who remain underrepresented in the field. Eugene Stitt, a welding instructor at Mesabi Range College, noted the importance of bringing younger generations into the trade, especially as many experienced welders approach retirement.

Students like Purdee Toland, inspired by her father, see welding as a promising career path. Toland, who applied to the Pipefitters Union, shared her excitement about pursuing a trade with high demand and growth potential.

Recognizing Talent and Rewarding Excellence

The competition awarded scholarships to top performers, helping them advance their education. Winners included Christian Manchester, who received a $1,000 scholarship, and others who excelled in various welding categories:

Oxy-Fuel Competition:

1st Place: Patrick Filiopovich

2nd Place: Parker Nelson

3rd Place: Marria Isaccs

Shielded Metal Arc Welding:

1st Place: Jace Isaccs

2nd Place: Austin Schroder

3rd Place: Parker Nelson

Gas Metal Arc Welding:

1st Place: Christian Manchester

2nd Place: Jack Spencer

3rd Place: Wyatt Vohler

Building the Future of Welding

The AWS Behind the Mask competition not only showcases the talent of today’s welding students but also highlights the critical need for skilled workers in the industry. By providing hands-on experience, scholarships, and a platform to shine, events like this ensure the welding trade continues to thrive for years to come.