WEST GROVE, PA — John Smoker, a student at Technical College High School (TCHS) Pennock’s Bridge, has earned first place in the prestigious Project MFG Maritime Welding Competition held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Competing against 27 participants from around 20 schools, John demonstrated exceptional skill and technical precision, securing a $1,500 scholarship to further his education in welding and manufacturing trades.
“It was a great day when my students John Smoker and Sam Oscar competed in the welding competition,” said Robert Melascaglia, TCHS Welding and Fabrication Instructor. “John particularly impressed the judges. He’s an outstanding student—a team player who always helps others and maintains a positive attitude. His hard work paid off.”
Along with the scholarship, John won $600 worth of high-quality welding supplies, including a new welding helmet and grinder. This achievement reflects his dedication to honing his craft and contributes to TCHS’s mission of preparing students for high-demand careers in technical industries.
The Project MFG Maritime Welding Competition is designed to showcase the skills of young welders while highlighting the importance of career and technical education (CTE). By fostering interest in manufacturing trades, the event plays a vital role in addressing the skilled labor gap in industries like marine repair and infrastructure development.
Now in his senior year at Oxford Area High School, John is preparing for a co-op opportunity at M. Davis & Sons, Inc. in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, where he will further apply and develop his expertise.
TCHS’s welding program equips students with hands-on experience and certifications needed for careers in welding and fabrication. Alumni of the program pursue roles as welding technicians or inspectors, with opportunities to advance into specialized fields. Salaries in the industry range from $51,000 to $85,000 annually, offering strong earning potential for skilled professionals.
Through programs like TCHS and competitions like Project MFG, students like John Smoker are proving that technical education builds a path to success while addressing critical workforce needs.
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