The Midwest Technical Institute is gearing up to host the 2025 High School Welding Competition at its East Peoria campus on April 12, 2025. The event kicks off at 7 AM with registration, and the competition starts at 8 AM. Aspiring high school welders must RSVP through MTI’s website or their local campus. Ivey Colvin, MTI Moline’s Campus President, emphasizes the event’s role in fostering careers in welding. Scholarships, including a $5,000 prize for first place, will be awarded. Participants and their families can engage with MTI’s community, explore the campus, and attend an awards ceremony recognizing the winners.
“Welding can provide a path to a successful career for aspiring high school seniors,” said Ivey Colvin, Campus President at MTI Moline. “Our annual welding competition is all about supporting seniors looking to take the next step towards a career in welding.”
High school seniors across Illinois showcased their welding prowess in MTI’s 2024 competition, culminating in the award of $36,000 in scholarships. The standout performer will be granted a $5,000 scholarship and a $1,000 donation to enhance their school’s welding program. Second and third places secure $2,500 and $1,000 scholarships, respectively. Each participant earns a $500 scholarship towards their MTI training. The challenge involves a timed welding project judged by MTI’s experts. Attendees have the chance to explore the campus and engage with admissions staff, concluding with an awards ceremony. Donations of welding gear and tools are welcomed.
“This is an exciting event that allows students to showcase their talent and compete for scholarships that can help them take the next step toward a welding career,” said Colvin. “At MTI, we’re passionate about helping students change their lives by giving them the tools and training they need to build successful careers in the skilled trades.”
MTI is accepting donations of welding gear, merchandise, or tools for prizes and raffle items.
For more information about MTI’s welding competition and to RSVP, please visit MidwestTech.edu or call your local campus.