SkillsUSA Wisconsin Welding Challenges

Why Welding?

The American Welding Society projects that 320,500 new welding professionals will be needed in the United States by 2029. Welders play a vital role in industries including manufacturing, construction, aerospace, automotive, energy, shipbuilding, and more.

Participating in a SkillsUSA Welding Challenge gives students hands-on experience while developing the technical, problem-solving, and professional skills that can help prepare them for a rewarding career in welding.

What to Expect

During the Welding Challenge, SkillsUSA high school members will:

  • Compete in a hands-on welding challenge

  • Take a written knowledge test

  • Participate in a mock job interview

Ribbons will be awarded in both the welding and interview portions.

  • First place in the welding portion secures an automatic spot at the State Leadership & Skills Conference (SLSC) in April.

Registration Details

  • Where to Register: Through the National Registration System

  • Who Can Participate: High school SkillsUSA members only

  • Registration Fee: $20 per student $5 for advisors (includes meal)

  • Deadline: See the posted registration close date below. Note: Contests may close early if spots are filled

  • Advisor Requirement: At least one adult advisor must accompany each school

  • Limits: Each school has a set number of participant spots, based on host site capacity. To request additional spots, email events@skillsusa-wi.org

Important Reminders

  • Students must be registered SkillsUSA members for the current membership year

  • Bring a resume for the job interview portion

  • Bring required safety equipment (see technical standards and email will go out to contestants head of time)

  • Meal is provided — please include dietary restrictions when registering

Date Location Building Address Start Time End Time Registration per school/Location Max Registration Open/Close Dates
Friday, Oct. 16th, 2026 Mid-State Technical College AMETA Center 5000 Coye Dr. Stevens Point, WI 54481 8:30-9:00 AM Registration 1:00 PM 4 per school / 32 Max Open 9/14/26 – Close 9/30/26
Thursday, Oct. 30th, 2026 Chetek, WI Chetek-Weyerhaeuser High School 1001 Knapp St, Chetek, WI 54728 4:00 PM Registration 8:00 PM 4 per school / 20 Max Open 9/21/26 – Close 10/9/26
Wednesday, Nov. 4th, 2026 Fox Valley Technical College Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center (AMTC) 4200 Poberezny Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902 7:45-8:15 AM Registration 1:45 PM 5 per school / 32 Max Open10/5/26 – Close 10/21/26