May 15, 2024 | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
John T. Blong Technology Center 8500 Hillandale Rd., Davenport, IA
Over 60 college and high school students will compete for top honors in three categories: shielded metal arc welding (SMAW - Stick), gas metal arc welding (GMAW - MIG), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW - TIG). Local industry experts serve as judges.
The event will kick off at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, at the Blong Technology Center, located at 8500 Hillandale Rd., Davenport. An awards ceremony will follow at 1 p.m.
"I'm continually impressed by the talent showcased by these students," said Megan Edens, Scott Community College Welding Instructor. “Their skills continue to surpass expectations, and the event's popularity only seems to escalate. It's a testament to their dedication and the growing interest in welding as a rewarding career path.”
Scholarships will be awarded to the top three winners in each category. Last year's scholarships amounted to $1,000, $750, and $500, respectively. Additional prizes, including welding equipment, will be provided by local sponsors, SSAB, Lincoln Electric, and more.
Parents, educators, and individuals interested in this field are encouraged to attend, observe the competition, tour the facility, and engage with local businesses.
"This event also serves as a vital recruitment tool,” said Edens. “Last year, 12 local manufacturers participated in the hiring fair. It's remarkable to witness the resulting opportunities—scholarships, prizes, and, most importantly, job offers."
Pre-registration for the third-annual welding competition is mandatory due to limited space. If you’re interested in participating, please contact Megan Edens, SCC Welding Instructor, at 563-441-4393 or mredens@eicc.edu.
About EICC’s Welding Program
Skilled welders are in high demand, especially in this region where manufacturing reigns. It is a great career, so grab your spot. We prepare you to succeed. Get hands-on in our welding lab. Join the workforce in as little as 8 weeks. Iowa’s Last-Dollar Scholarship may even cover your tuition.
Award Options:
The Fundamental Welding Certificate provides hands-on instruction in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW - MIG), Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW - Flux Core), along with Blueprint Reading, Welding Symbols, Welding Defects, and Safety. Upon completion of this program, you’ll be prepared for employment as a production welder in manufacturing.
All courses in this program can be applied toward the Welder, Diploma or Technical Studies, AAS degree.
The Advanced Welding Certificate provides hands-on instruction in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW - MIG), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAC - Stick), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW - TIG) Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW - Flux Core), and Metal Cutting, along with Blueprint Reading, Welding Symbols, Welding Defects, and Safety. With this certificate, you’re prepared for employment in a variety of welding roles in manufacturing and construction industries.
All courses in this program can be applied toward the Welder, Diploma or Technical Studies, AAS degree.
The Welder Diploma provides hands-on instruction in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW - MIG), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAC - Stick), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW - TIG), Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW - Flux Core), Oxy Fuel, and Metal Cutting, along with Blueprint Reading, Welding Symbols, Welding Defects, and Safety. Students will also cover technical mathematics and communication. Upon completion of the program, you’re prepared for employment in the majority of welding areas.
All courses in this program can be applied toward a Technical Studies, AAS degree.
We offer welding training programs that don't involve applying for college and gets you straight into the workforce. Learn more about career training through our Continuing Education Department.
- Basic Welding, Training Certificate
- Gas Metal Arc Welding, Training Certificate
- Career-Ready Production Welding, Training Certificate
For more information, call toll-free 1-888-336-3907 or email eiccinfo@eicc.edu.