Â鶹ŮÀÉ is thrilled to host its inaugural Welding Rodeo. Join us on September 25, 2024, at the Sturgeon Bay campus and October 9, 2024, at the Marinette campus, both from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. These free public events will celebrate the skills of local welders, provide valuable insights into STEM careers, and offer a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Event highlights include:
- Welding Competitions: In teams up to four, welders of all skill levels will have eight hours to craft sculptures from donated scrap metal based on the creative theme: Soar Higher. Participants will compete for awards and prizes in various categories, and all completed sculptures will be donated for a live auction at the end of the day. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Â鶹ŮÀÉ student scholarships.
- STEM Career Fair: Explore diverse career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math. Connect with local industry employers and Â鶹ŮÀÉ staff to discover opportunities and learn more about the growing fields.
- Food and Entertainment: Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, music, and food for purchase from local food trucks and other vendors.
Â鶹ŮÀÉ is still looking for welder participants for the competition. Local businesses are also encouraged to get involved by exhibiting at the career fair, donating funds or scrap metal, volunteering, and entering a team of skilled welders.
Background to the Welding Rodeo
Since World War II, Â鶹ŮÀÉ has collaborated closely with the maritime industry to develop and grow its workforce. In recent years, the College has trained nearly 15,000 new hires and incumbent workers through its North Coast Marine Manufacturing Training Center. Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Sturgeon Bay campus recently expanded its customized training program for employees of Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, one of Wisconsin’s largest shipbuilding employers.
“The trades industry plays a significant role in Marinette’s rich history and promising future. Welding is not just about joining metals; it is about building the backbone of industry, enabling innovation and creativity, and sustaining the economic vitality of our manufacturing community,” said Cindy Bailey, dean of Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Marinette campus.
In response to this rising need for skilled shipbuilders, Â鶹ŮÀÉ was awarded nearly $600,000 by the Department of the Navy in a partnership to attract and grow a new talent pool within the region. With the grant and community support, Â鶹ŮÀÉ created the Welding Rodeo.
The annual Welding Rodeo will be held at both Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Sturgeon Bay and Marinette campuses, home to Fincantieri Marine Group shipyards and many other influential maritime employers. The schedule for the upcoming Welding Rodeos are slated for:
- September 25, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Sturgeon Bay campus
- October 9, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Marinette campus
- Spring 2025 at Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Sturgeon Bay campus
- Fall 2025 at Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Marinette campus
“We’re thrilled to host this event that celebrates our community’s history and highlights the rewarding, sustainable careers right here in our own backyard,” Tammy Brunette, Coordinator of Â鶹ŮÀÉ’s Learning & Innovation Center in Sister Bay.
For further details about the Welding Rodeo’s schedule, how to get involved, and more, visit www.nwtc.edu/rodeo
