Project MFG and Weld Like a Girl Host 4th Annual Youth Welding Challenge in Yuma

Yuma, Arizona — On November 5–6, Project MFG teamed up with Weld Like a Girl for the 4th Annual Youth Welding Challenge and Discovery Event in Yuma, Arizona! Over two action-packed days, 22 homeschooled students from around the area rolled up their sleeves and jumped into a hands-on experience designed to spark creativity, confidence, and curiosity for the skilled trades.

The mission behind the Youth Welding Challenge is simple: ignite a passion for welding and show young people the endless possibilities in modern manufacturing and fabrication. Each year, the event keeps building momentum, giving students a chance to learn new skills, work side-by-side with mentors, and discover just how exciting a career in the trades can be.

“I was really excited to come back this year,” said Aubrey, a returning participant. “Last year, my team won third place, and since then, I’ve taken more classes at Weld Like a Girl with Mrs. Shanen. I couldn’t wait to see how much I’ve improved and maybe even take first this time!”

The event kicked off with a morning Discovery Event where students dove right into the action! From MIG welding and grinding to plasma cutting and chop saw techniques, students learned the ins and outs of fabrication while creating their very own butterfly project. Mentors and instructors guided them every step of the way, connecting hands-on skills to real-world career paths and showing how creativity and technical skill go hand in hand in modern manufacturing.

Throughout the day, students got the chance to connect with industry experts, including representatives from the American Welding Society (AWS), instructors from Arizona Western College, staff from Workshops for Warriors, and retired professionals who shared decades of industry experience. These mentors offered advice on certifications, career pathways, and what it really takes to succeed in the world of welding and fabrication.

Then came the afternoon competition, where students put their their learn skills to the ultimate test. Students teamed up in groups of three, each with a mentor, to take on a project inspired by Yuma’s rich transportation history. 

Every year, the Youth Welding Challenge gives back to the community by donating the student projects to be auctioned off during Redondo Days, which is celebrated every year in January, to benefit the Yuma County Historical Society.

Redondo Days is a community celebration in Yuma that honors José María Redondo, one of the city’s earliest mayors and pioneers who helped shape the region’s growth through irrigation and local development. The event features food, music, and a silent auction that raises funds to help preserve Yuma’s history.

To make things extra fun, this year’s competition projects were different on each day. On Day 1, students built a train, and on Day 2, they built a water tower, both with moving parts that came together to form one complete sculpture of a steam-powered train being filled by the tower. This year’s project celebrates Yuma’s rich railway history and its important role in connecting the community.

Judges, mentors, and instructors were blown away by the students’ creativity and dedication. “It’s incredible to watch how much these students can accomplish in such a short amount of time,” said Mike Wedel from Project MFG. “Events like this are about more than just welding, they’re about showing students what’s possible when creativity meets craftsmanship. The trades aren’t just jobs; they’re careers filled with innovation, pride, and purpose.”

The event wrapped up with an awards ceremony recognizing teams for excellence in creativity, teamwork, and technical execution. The top three teams each day earned certificates to return for more classes at Weld Like a Girl, but the biggest prize of all was the excitement and confidence students took home with them.

“I’ve been working with Project MFG since 2021, and I think their mission is fantastic,” said Weld Like a Girl owner Shanen Aranmor. “They typically run competitions for very advanced welders, so hosting something like this, where younger students get a taste of the trades, is such a special opportunity. It’s amazing to see the Department of Defense’s support helping inspire the next generation.”

The Youth Welding Challenge continues to highlight Project MFG’s mission to elevate the next generation of skilled workers by bringing together education, industry, and community in a way that’s innovative, inclusive, and inspiring. Every year, the event grows bigger and brighter, proving that the future of manufacturing is full of creativity, collaboration, and endless possibilities.