Date of Event: 03/25/2026
Location: Northwoods Technical College Superior, WI.
Number of Attendees: 54 students competed
Presenter/Notable Guest(s): Section 15 Director Dale Szabla
Event Summary: The Section hosted a Behind the Mask Welding Competition for college students.
Students from four different colleges and 7 different campuses attended, including Northwood
Technical College, Superior, WI; Ashland, WI; and Rice Lake, WI campuses; Central Lakes
College, Brainerd, MN; Lake Superior College, Duluth, MN; and Minnesota North College,
Eveleth, MN and Grand Rapids, MN. Fifty-four students competed in three different timed
competitions, including gas metal arc welding (GMAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW),
and oxyfuel cutting (OFC). The students had a chance to win prize money, and a scholarship was
awarded to first place winner of the welding competition to continue their welding education.
Other items during the event included industry leaders from the area who set up
recruitment booths. This allowed students the chance to get their first interaction with potential
future employers. The event also included multiple drawings for various welding equipment and
supplies to help students at the early stages of their careers. Students were given tickets at the
door and could win more competing in welding trivia competition. Guest speaker District 15
Director Dale Szabla also spoke to them about the importance of AWS and how it helps build a
safer, stronger world. He also awarded a $1000 scholarship to one of the contestants, Rhys Boser.
Many students left with great pride and learned the importance of performing well under
pressure. All in all, the event was an excellent way for students to make connections, test their
abilities, and work under pressure.
