The 2026 Student Welding Competition brought together some of the region’s top welding students for a full day of competition at Genesee Valley BOCES in Mount Morris. Hosted by the American Welding Society (AWS) Rochester Section in partnership with WesLor Enterprises Inc., the event highlighted the connection between classroom learning and industry expectations.
A total of 15 students competed in this regional event, representing Genesee Valley BOCES, Monroe One BOCES, Monroe 2 BOCES, GST BOCES, and Wayne Technical and Career Center. Each school was invited to send up to three students, carefully selected by their teachers based on skill, work ethic, and performance in their welding programs.
The competition began with a written test, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of welding concepts and safety. It set the tone for a day that required both knowledge and hands-on ability.
Following the test, students moved into a practice session where they prepared their welding booths and made sure all equipment was working properly. This step allowed competitors to get comfortable in their space before the timed portion began.
Each student was then given an identical kit along with a detailed blueprint. With two hours on the clock, they were challenged to complete the same project, focusing on accuracy, technique, and overall quality.
Throughout the competition, the welding lab was filled with concentration as students worked carefully through each step. Industry professionals evaluated the finished projects, looking closely at precision, weld quality, and adherence to the blueprint.
The event also brought together a strong group of supporters. Teachers, administrators, family members, and friends were in attendance, watching and encouraging students as they competed.
When the competition wrapped up, the top finishers were announced. Andrew Clark of Penfield Central School District, representing Monroe One BOCES, placed fourth. Callen Rickard of Webster Schroeder, also representing Monroe One BOCES, earned third place, while Brendan Becker of Hornell City School District, representing GST BOCES, took second.
Cooper Harkins of Pavilion Central School District, representing Genesee Valley BOCES, claimed first place honors. The top three finishers will move on to compete at the state level, and all participants should be proud—this level of work takes dedication, focus, and a lot of effort.
Great prizes were awarded to the top finishers, recognizing their hard work and skill throughout the competition. In addition, every student who participated received welding gloves and a welding jacket. Each student was also able to take their completed project home along with feedback notes, giving them the opportunity to review their work with their teachers and better understand what they did well and where they can continue to improve.