THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn.- Students from Northland Community & Technical College’s welding program took part in the annual Behind the Mask welding competition on March 29, 2012. The American Welding Society- Northern Plains chapter holds the event. The NDSCS Skills and Technology Center in Fargo, ND hosted this year’s event. Over 70 competitors from six different colleges competed this year.
Contestants competed in SMAW (stick) or GMAW (wire) categories. Students were able to choose one category or participate in both. They received a print and welding code to follow to make the welds in the proper place and size. The competition tests an individual’s skills in print reading, fabrication, welding, and time limits. Not only is the competition fun and challenging, it prepares students for job interviews and weld tests they will encounter as they enter the workforce.
Two Northland welding students from the Thief River Falls campus placed in the competition. Jorgen Berhow placed third in the stick welding competition and Corey McClung placed fourth in the stick welding competition.
Northland Community and Technical College (Northland College .edu) is a comprehensive college with campuses in Thief River Falls, MN and East Grand Forks, MN. Northland also has a separate aerospace campus in Thief River Falls, MN and a satellite site in Roseau, MN. Northland offers certificates, diplomas, transfer courses, two-year AAS degrees in more than 60 areas of study, workforce training and education programs. Northland is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Visit Northland online at www.northlandcollege.edu. Northland is an equal opportunity educator and employer.