ISU Hosts Annual Rocky Mountain Welding Shootout

Hosted at the William M. and Karin A. Eames Advanced Technical Education and Innovation Complex in Pocatello, the event drew 128 students from 26 high schools across Idaho, all competing for a share of more than $15,000 in prizes. This premier welding competition showcased the best of high school talent, putting their skills to the test in a vibrant display of sparks and skill.

The students showcased their abilities in three primary welding techniques: Stick welding, which uses a fixed electrode and is noted for its versatility; MIG welding, known for its efficiency and use of a continuous wire feed; and TIG welding, which requires a high degree of skill to manage its non-consumable tungsten electrode for precise, clean welds. These methods challenged the participants to demonstrate precision and adaptability across different joints and positions.

“The contests involve hands-on welding tasks and theoretical exams that span different types of welding and fabrication techniques,” said Marcus Hernandez, a clinical instructor for the ISU College of Technology’s Welding program. “Participants are given blueprints and required to perform specific welds accordingly. These welds are then rigorously inspected and evaluated by our second-year students, with supervision provided by experienced professionals from our industry partners. It’s a thorough assessment designed to challenge their practical and problem-solving skills.”

The event not only tested technical skills but also helped students measure their prowess against peers, which is crucial for those making decisions about their future in trade programs or careers in industrial technologies.

Hosted by the ISU College of Technology, the shootout included facility tours and demonstrations, enhancing participant understanding of the field’s latest technologies and practices.

"Year after year, we see the Rocky Mountain Shootout expand, drawing more high school welders from across Idaho who bring a higher level of skill to the competition,” said Dave Treasure, chair of the Trade and Industrial Department at the ISU College of Technology. “It’s fantastic to witness these young welders in action, showing off the hard work and passion they’ve poured into their craft."

The Rocky Mountain Shootout offered participants a chance to interact with the latest industry technologies through tours and demonstrations provided by the ISU College of Technology. The event concluded with the distribution of substantial prizes, including high-value welding equipment and supplies, thanks to the generous support of Williams Companies, Norco, Industrial Metal Enterprises LLC, Loenbro, Aztec Welding Services LLC, Pacific Steel & Recycling, Morco Construction LLC, Idaho Central Credit Union, Partner Steel Co. Inc, Lincoln Electric, Miller, L&L Mechanical, Barnum Mechanical, Das-Co of Idaho, Coca-Cola, Remax-Mai Team, American Welding Society, Pro Pipe Fabrication, Whitaker Construction and Premier Technology. These prizes not only reward the participants' hard work but also supply them with the tools necessary to advance their skills and careers.