NYS Steel Fabricators Welding Competition Showcases Student Skills

October 30, 2024

On Monday, Oct. 28, Hudson Valley Community College hosted the second annual New York State Steel Fabricators Association (NYSSFA) Welding Competition in the college’s Lang Technical Building. Students enrolled in the Welding and Fabrication AOS degree program participated in the competition executing a series of different welding processes and joints to complete weldments.

A total of 10 students participated in the competition which was judged by a panel of industry experts. Prizes were awarded to the top three performers: Andrew Yerdon (first place); Zyonia Smith (second place); and Zach Hilt (third place). Students also had the opportunity to network with several vendors and industry partners in the Gene F. Haas Center for Advanced Manufacturing Skills following the competition.

"This welding competition combined all the concepts students have covered through their coursework into one exercise,” said Instructor Sean Mendez. “It was a great opportunity for students to showcase their skills to prospective employers while also experiencing what an actual weld and print reading test would be like for a job interview.”

The Welding and Fabrication program serves 50 students who are well prepared to enter the workforce following two years of study and hands-on experience in welding and metal fabrication. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of 2023, the median salary for welding technicians and related careers is $48,940 per year. In addition, the New York State Department of Labor predicts the need for welding technicians to increase through 2026 as industry demand for training focused on new technology and industrial maintenance continues to rise.

“We were so pleased to host the NYSSFA welding competition on campus for the second year in a row,” said Officer in Charge Louis Coplin. “The event provides an exceptional opportunity for our students to practice their welding skills in a fun and friendly competition with fellow students. We are very thankful for the industry partners who joined us to judge the competition, as well as those who spent time talking with our students about careers and job opportunities after graduation. Congratulations to our faculty, and well done to all of our students and award recipients!”