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november 19TH, 2024 - Hampton roads, Virginia
Hampton Roads, Virginia – On November 19th, Project MFG and TMG’s Virginia Talent Pipeline Project (VA TPP) partnered with Tidewater Community College to host the Project MFG Maritime Welding Competition and Career Discovery. This event brought together 22 talented students from 7 local high schools and community and technical education (CTE) centers to showcase their precision, craftsmanship, and fabrication skills.
In this competition, students were judged on the quality of their welds, the precision of their measurements, and their adherence to safety protocols. Judges also evaluated the contestants ability to troubleshoot and solve problems related to welding. These students represent the next generation of skilled trades and we’re proud to help develop skills to pursue rewarding careers.
The competition not only showcased the participants’ skills but also highlighted the significance of vocational education in meeting the demands of the modern workforce. As industries evolve, events like these play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of skilled professionals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the manufacturing industry.
Schools that Competed:
Advanced Technology Institute (ATI)
New Horizons Regional Education Center – Butler Farm Campus
New Horizons Regional Education Centers – Woodside Lane Campus
Smithfield High School
T.H. Badger Technical School – North
T.H. Badger Technical School – Arcadia High School
Tidewater Community College (TCC)
Career Discovery Event
In addition to the Maritime Welding competition, TMG, the U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program hosted a Career Discovery Day. This event is designed to bridge the gap between talented students and industry leaders in defense manufacturing.
Students from all over Hampton Roads had a fantastic opportunity to dive into career options in manufacturing and defense, which was held alongside the Maritime Welding Competition. This event was like a big networking and informational fair, shining a light on job prospects from local suppliers in the submarine shipbuilding and defense manufacturing fields.
Senior Chief Paul Schiro gave a powerful keynote speech, stressing how vital skilled trade professionals are for national safety. He also highlighted the Navy’s commitment to supporting future generations through programs like the Talent Pipeline.
Overall, this dual event was a great chance for students in the area to explore career paths, meet maritime employers, and recognize the incredible skills that are driving the future of skilled trades.
Some of the leading maritime employers that participated in our Career Discovery Event include:
Winners Announced
The first, second, and third-place winners all received welding kits with new Lincoln Electric welding helmets and other tools to ready them for the workforce. The first and second place winners are invited to participate in Project MFG’s National Maritime Championship in the Spring and additionally, first place received a scholarship from the American Welding Society to help further their education.
The winners of the 2024 Hampton Roads Maritime Welding Competition were:
First Place: Austin Wert from T.H. Badger Technical School
Second Place: Thomas Thach from the Advanced Technology Institute
Third Place: Elizabeth Otocka from the Advanced Technology Institute
These students represent the next generation of skilled trades and we’re proud to help develop skills to pursue rewarding careers.
watch the event recap
meet the winners!
about Tidewater Community College
Tidewater Community College provides collegiate education and workforce training to individuals of all ages, helping them achieve their goals and contribute to the vitality of the regional and global community.
Whether you’re a seasoned worker looking for a promotion or a high school graduate just starting out, TCC can help. The academy offers day, evening and weekend programs on a flexible schedule with your goals in mind.
Their Skilled Trades Academy provides short-term training for in-demand jobs in:
- Maritime Trades like marine coating, pipefitting, and welding
- Manufacturing Trades like sheet metal
- Industrial Trades like pipe laying
- Construction Trades like roofing, framing, and electrical
about project mfg
Project MFG shines a light on the need and opportunities for skilled trades by focusing on the development of new talent to provide a path forward for individuals and our country. As an integrated workforce development and recruitment effort, Project MFG collaborates across communities, the private sector, and government to expand the U.S. industrial base workforce.
For more information about Project MFG competitions and future events,
please visit projectmfg.com or contact marketing@projectmfg.com.
