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Providence, RI – The 2025 Providence Maritime Welding Competition brought together students, educators, and industry leaders to celebrate emerging talent and career pathways in maritime welding, with a focus on shipbuilding and submarines. Hosted at Providence Career and Technical Academy, the event was organized in partnership with SENEDIA – The Alliance for Defense Tech, Talent, and Innovation – and General Dynamics Electric Boat.
The event welcomed several distinguished guests, including Providence Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Javier Montanez, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, Governor’s Representative Jeremy Chiapetta, and U.S. Navy Commander Matthew Bouwense.
Eighteen students from six local high schools participated in a rigorous two-hour welding and fabrication challenge, showcasing their skills by welding a surfacing submarine. Cooper Senecal of Chariho Career and Technical High School took first place, followed by Luis Sousa of Diman Regional Vocational High School in second, and Patrick Hull, also of Chariho, in third.
Winners received welding tool bags, with the top two earning invitations to compete in the 2025 Maritime Welding National Championship this June in Big Rapids, Michigan.
Beyond the competition, over 100 students engaged in a Career Discovery Event featuring interactive exhibits and direct networking with 13 industry professionals and educational leaders.
“Today I want you to have fun, learn, and ask as many questions as possible—because this is about your future,” said Dr. Montanez.
Mayor Brett Smiley emphasized the long-term potential in the shipbuilding industry:
“You may not realize it yet, but current submarine contracts can sustain careers for decades. High school is the time to discover what you’re good at and begin building a path to financial independence.”
During the keynote address, Commander Bouwense underscored the strategic importance of submarines and the critical role skilled trades play in national defense.
“Our submarines are one of America’s most potent advantages… Every weld, every hull, every ship built by individuals like you matters. Your work will help ensure peace for tomorrow,” he said.
Next, the Maritime Welding Competition and Career Discovery Event will head to Manchester Community College in New Hampshire on Monday, May 12, continuing the effort to inspire and connect the next generation of defense manufacturing professionals.
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.
SENEDIA, the alliance for defense tech, talent, and innovation, is a catalyst for thought leadership, technical innovation, and workforce development. SENEDIA connects, convenes, and partners across the industry to support talent, innovation, and growth. For more information on SENEDIA, please visit www.SENEDIA.org.
Meet the winners:
First-Place:
Cooper Senecal
Chario Career & Technical Center
Second-Place:
Luis Sousa
Diman Regional Vocational High School
Third-Place:
Patrick Hull
Chariho Career and Technical High School
Honorable Mention:
Gabryel DaSilva
Providence Career and Technical Academy
Event Photos
About SENEDIA
SENEDIA is a catalyst for thought leadership and innovation in undersea technology, cybersecurity and defense technologies
They strengthen the defense sector and bolster our national security by connecting, partnering with, and convening leaders across industry and government. Their members represent some of the most exciting, cutting-edge work in undersea technology, cybersecurity, and defense technologies.
About General Dynamics Electric Boat
General Dynamics Electric Boat is a subsidiary of General Dynamics Corporation. It has been the primary builder of submarines for the United States Navy for more than 100 years.
Their primary mission is designing, constructing and providing life cycle support to the world’s finest submarines.
about project mfg
Project MFG is a catalyst that helps elevate the next generation of highly skilled trade professionals by changing mindsets, fostering community preparedness, and challenging how the critical skills needed to succeed in modern advanced manufacturing are taught. Through single and multiple technology competitions, participants gain hands-on experience with the latest technology and support from subject matter experts
For more information about Project MFG competitions and future events, please visit projectmfg.com or contact marketing@projectmfg.com.
