On Friday, Feb. 24, students from the David L. Carrasco Job Corps Center performed exceptionally in the Build-Off Texas High School Welding Series competition, placing on the podium for a second year in a row.  

Six students participated from the center among 115 competitors, with Job Corps Team 1 placing third in a competition that required students to construct an American flag from the materials provided.  

“I’m so incredibly proud of our David L. Carrasco Job Corps welding students,” said Rose Guerrero, David L. Carrasco Job Corps Center Director. “The work our students put in before the Texas High School Welding Series competition prepared them for today’s winning results. At Job Corps, we work so diligently to provide all our students both the technical and social skills necessary for a career. Today was a testament to the extraordinary commitment of our instructors, staff and students.”

The statewide event held by Texas High School Welding Series aims to develop the technical and employability skills necessary for the welding industry. Students of all skill levels are challenged in an effort to improve ability and increase their desire to pursue a career in welding. Industry leaders team up with educational leaders to create a unique and influential experience for the younger generation.

The David L. Carrasco welding instructors were Jesus Grajeda, Daniel Ramirez and John Aguillera. Team 1 included students Adan Hernandez, Juan Sanchez and Luis Gamon, while Team 2 was comprised of Giancarlo Moncayo, Kaiver Osornio and Brayan Iglesias. 

“I learned so much about a career in welding but also myself today,” Adan Hernandez, David L. Carrasco Job Corps welding student, said. “The competition was an amazing experience to test my skills, work as a team and network with employers eager to hire me. I’m really proud of the results we achieved.”

In 2022, David L. Carrasco Job Corps welding students also performed impressively at the same event when they swept the podium by taking first, second and third place in the Gas Metal Arc Welding contest.