The annual event, hosted in partnership with PUMA Steel, celebrates the strength and craftsmanship of the U.S. structural steel industry while giving high school students a hands-on opportunity to test their welding abilities in a professional environment.
Students from across the region gathered in LCCC’s advanced welding labs to complete a series of timed welding challenges. Their work was evaluated by a panel of welding professionals from both local and national organizations, ensuring that the highest industry standards were met in each project. Students also had the opportunity to connect with college instructors and industry representatives while learning more about educational pathways and career opportunities in welding and structural steel.
Congratulations to NCHS Mustangs, Jerred Moore, Kaden Greenleaf, Tanner Stull, Jesse Duran, Preston Castle, and Austin O’Toole, who made an outstanding showing at the event, demonstrating impressive technical skills, teamwork, and professionalism. Each of these incredible students earned individual scholarship awards recognizing their skill and excellence, as well as various pieces of welding gear, such as auto-darkening welding hoods, multiple pairs of gloves, pliers, chipping hammers, welding jackets, and more. Jerred Moore earned first place in the competition and received a $5,000 scholarship and a new welder. Students will be able to use their scholarships at any school of their choice, including trade schools, community colleges, or universities.
“Competitions like this are where the classroom curriculum comes to life. These boys worked so hard after school and were quite the team. I am very proud of the young men they have grown into. They are becoming valued members of the workforce. Winning these scholarships for some has been life-changing. Watching how hard they worked in class and after school made these wins so much more rewarding. The Natrona County welding programs are doing good things for students,” shared welding teacher Emily Balfour.
Congratulations, students, on this exceptional accomplishment.
Natrona County High School is committed to preparing responsible and life-long learners who value themselves, contribute to society, and succeed in a changing world. Exceptional work, students!
For more information about the event, visit pumasteel.com/2025steeldays.