Digital graphic with text that says "Newcomb Places First at KC Welding Comp". Features a black background with gold flecks and a welder wearing purple and gold.

Dominic Newcomb placed first and earned a scholarship to Kaskaskia College during the

annual Kaskaskia College High School Welding Competition on March 12.

Three other seniors placed in the top ten as well. Dallas Stone placed second. Brody

Diekemper placed third, and Gavin Mollett placed sixth.

This competition occurs during the Kaskaskia College spring break every year and

provides an opportunity for high school students to see how their skills compare to others in the

area.

By: Brody Diekemper

“I really liked how KC broke the contest into a few different days to help make sure the

shop wasn't overcrowded,” said CHS first-year ag teacher Emily Millburg, “What was really

cool to see with having smaller groups though was that it allowed the Kaskaskia College staff

and students to make the contest a learning experience for those competing.”

There were 50 total students from eight local schools participating this year.

“I wasn't entirely positive about what to expect from it. Luckily, I had a few seniors in

my Ag Machine Service Class that had participated last year that were able to give me an idea of

what to expect for the types of welds and the cutting,” said Millburg.

During the contest, students were asked to demonstrate a torch cut and seven weld joints.