The Secondary Training Division of the Battle of the Beads Welding Competition winners along with judges and Ozarka College faculty.
Ozarka College recently hosted the annual Battle of the Beads Welding Competition, where 53 competitors from area high schools showcased their skills. The competition brought together students to demonstrate their welding abilities, connect with industry professionals, and celebrate the craftsmanship and precision that define the trade.
Participants competed in both high school and secondary training divisions, with prizes awarded to the top welders in each category. Bad Boy Mowers served as the presenting sponsor of this year’s competition, providing weld test materials and a welding cap for each student, supporting students on-site, and serving as event judges.
“The welding competition has quickly become one of our favorite events of the year,” said Dawsyn Cole, director of workforce development. “It’s a great opportunity for students to put their technical skills to the test while learning more about the welding profession and the opportunities available through Ozarka College’s programs.”
Ozarka College extends its appreciation to Bad Boy Mowers, Emerson Tools, Mike Watson of State Farm, First Community Bank, Izard County Farm Bureau, FutureFuel, Airgas, Lincoln Electric, and Miller Poultry and Cattle Co., along with all participating schools and instructors who helped make this competition a success.
Winners were:
High School Division (above) — First place, Brennan Knowlton, Timbo; second place, Shawn Bryson, ICC; third place, Sabastion Robbins, ICC.
Mchail Maness, first place, Secondary Training Division
Memphis Engles, second place, Melbourne
Aleck Long, Mountain View, third place, Secondary Training Division
Secondary Training Division — First place, Mchail Maness, Melbourne; second place, Memphis Engles, Melbourne; third place, Aleck Long, Mountain View.
Images provided by Ozarka College
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