Date of Event: 02/13/2026
Location: Huntsville Center for Technology Huntsville, Alabama
Number of Attendees: 75
Event Summary: The Huntsville Center for Technology (HCT) hosted a Beginner Welding Competition that brought together student welders from multiple regional career and technical education programs to demonstrate foundational welding skills, safety awareness, and craftsmanship. The event showcased the strength of career and technical education in North Alabama and the critical role these institutions play in developing the future skilled-trades workforce.
Competition Results:
1,Cannon Parker – HCT (1st Place)
2.Jaret Alanis – DCTC (2nd Place)
3.Gus Fowler – DCTC (3rd Place)
4.Cody Whitley – KDCIA
5.Aron Muniz – DCTC
6.Brody Freeman – DCTC
7.Cash Treece – KDCIA
8.Whitaker Kerns – HCT
9.Jaylen Morales – CAD
10.Cason Treece – KDCIA
Students were evaluated on weld quality, bead appearance, consistency, safety practices, and adherence to instructions—key competencies for beginner-level welders preparing for entry into the trade. Importance of the Huntsville Center for Technology. Institutions like the Huntsville Center for Technology are essential to workforce development in North Alabama. HCT provides students with hands-on training in industry-relevant facilities, introduces them early to skilled-trade career pathways, and supports the region’s growing aerospace, defense, and manufacturing sectors. These programs serve as a critical bridge between secondary education, post-secondary technical training, and industry certification. The competition was supported by the American Welding Society (AWS), with direct participation from the local section. Jose R. Rivera-Cruz, AWS Section Chair, was present to support the event and serve as a judge, reinforcing the importance of industry standards, safety, and professionalism at the student level. AWS involvement provides students with early exposure to nationally recognized welding standards, promotes awareness of AWS certifications, and connects young welders to the broader professional welding community.
