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$6k in Welding Supplies Awarded at Weld-Off

Posted on: December 5, 2025   |   Category: News
Weldoff 05

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Katie Paulson, (605) 882-5284

WATERTOWN – Six high school welding students from across South Dakota took home cutting-edge welding equipment and have earned a full-ride college scholarships if they were seniors at the December 3, 2025 Lake Area Technical College Weld-Off in Watertown.

Event organizer Katie Paulson said nearly 400 students from over 40 high schools competed in the one-day event which was held on the Lake Area Tech campus. The competition included two divisions, in which students were provided blueprints and necessary parts to complete a complex welding project. Participants were also required to complete a written welding exam. The top 3 in each division were: 

Beginner Division:

  1. Nick Jones, Tea High School
  2. Kellan Nelson, Hamlin High School
  3. Tucker Moyer, Deuel High School

Advanced Division:

  1. Landry Coy, Tea High School
  2. Kade Korleski, Tea High School
  3. Silas Carson, Belle Fourche High School

The senior students in each category would have earned Build Dakota Scholarships to Lake Area Tech, which covers the full cost of tuition, fees, books and tools. (None of these winners were seniors.)

“The Weld-Off is an amazing opportunity for high school 10-12 graders to showcase their skills, network with industry leaders from across the region and learn about the latest trends in welding,” Paulson said. “It allows students to explore educational and career opportunities with experts in the field. And of course, for the winners, it can be life-changing.”

Paulson said the event would not be possible without support from industry leaders who provide financial support, prizes, equipment and other resources. This year’s sponsors included: Marmen Energy, AOX Welding Supply, Miller Welders, Masaba, Crenlo, Terex, Stein Sign Display and ESCO Manufacturing.

In addition, Marmen Energy and Terex provided Certified Welding Inspectors to serve as competition judges. “Supporting programs like this is essential for the future of the welding industry,” said Aimee Miritello of Marmen Energy.” Her comment was echoed by Jeremy Nygaard of Terex who said, “We’re proud to contribute to developing the next generation of welding professionals and offering opportunities for young talent to showcase their skills.”