Welding students, Camden Creel and Devin Beach, from the Marion County Career and Technology Center recently put their skills to the test while competing in the Darby Ledet Welding Competition held at the Greene County Vocational-Technical Center. The competition brought together welding students from multiple schools to demonstrate their technical ability, precision, and adherence to safety standards in a competitive, real-world environment. Students were judged on weld quality, accuracy, technique, and their ability to follow detailed specifications within a set time limit. Marion County students represented their program with professionalism and determination as they completed challenging welding tasks designed to reflect industry standards. The event provided students the opportunity to apply classroom instruction and shop practice in a high- pressure setting similar to what they may experience in the workforce. “Our students worked hard preparing for this competition,” said Jacob Griffith, welding instructor at Marion County Career and Technology Center. “Events like this allow them to showcase their skills, build confidence, and gain valuable experience competing alongside peers from other programs.” In addition to competition, students had the chance to observe different techniques, learn from judges and instructors, and connect with
others pursuing careers in welding. Participation in events such as this helps students develop not only technical welding skills but also soft skills such as time management, problem-solving, and professionalism. These experiences are critical as students prepare for careers in construction, fabrication, manufacturing, and other welding-related fields. Marion County Career and Technology Center continues to
emphasize hands-on training and competitive opportunities to prepare students for success beyond the classroom. The welding program remains committed to developing skilled, safety-minded workers ready to meet industry demands.
