Welding competition builds industrial workforce pipeline

The San Jacinto College Central and North Campus welding technology departments came together this spring for the 2026 Battle of the Campuses Welding Competition.

Now in its third year, the event showcases students’ technical skills while connecting participants with employers.

This year’s competition included a visit from Texas State Rep. Mary Ann Perez, who represents District 144. Perez addressed students and faculty on the importance of workforce education and skilled trades. She also presented the welding program with a flag flown over the Texas State Capitol and an official proclamation recognizing the program’s impact on the community.

"It is inspiring to see workforce education in action at the San Jacinto College annual welding faceoff," Perez said. "This competition doesn’t just test skill — it mirrors real-world weld tests that employers use, connecting students directly with the industry partners who will hire them."

The event is supported by industry partners who provide materials, equipment and networking opportunities. Mike Miller of Gemstone Industrial Services supplied metals, filler wire, safety equipment, meals and door prizes. The company also recruits San Jac students and hired two students during this year’s competition.

Additional support came from Alan Solorzano of Weld Tube and Outlaw Leather, who provided prizes.

Student work was evaluated by industry professionals Jimmy Upchurch and Joe Suarez of Zachry Group, along with Scott Witowski of Gas and Supply. Robert Thompson, a San Jac graduate and retired industry professional, has judged the competition since its inception and returns each year to mentor students.

Welding instructors have vast experience in construction, fabrication, pipefitting and specialized welding fields.

"Each year, the annual faceoff becomes more impressive, organized and rewarding, which reflects the dedication, knowledge and mentorship our instructors provide every day," Marie Tate, program director, said. "Seeing students earn job offers in GTAW pipe welding and receiving recognition from Mary Ann Perez shows the real impact of our work. Together, we bring decades of experience and truly change lives."

Students competed in multiple welding disciplines:

3G Shielded Metal Arc Welding

First place: Daniel Garcia, North Campus

Second place: Abraham Trejo, Central Campus

Third place: Lucas Lavendar, Central Campus

4G Shielded Metal Arc Welding

First place: Garitt Jeffery, Central Campus

Second place: John Almazan, North Campus

Third place: Angel Ramos, North Campus

6G Shielded Metal Arc Welding

First place: Kevin Delasancha, North Campus

Second place: Emilio Lucio, Central Campus

Third place: Evan Sowers, North Campus

3G Gas Metal Arc Welding

First place: Gissel Guerrero, North Campus

Second place: Bryan Trejo, Central Campus

Third place: Antanislado Rodriguez, North Campus

6G Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

First place: David Marroquin, North Campus

Second place: Ricardo Aguirre, Central Campus

Third place: Daniel Flores, North Campus

6G Stainless Steel

First place: Angel Cardenas, Central Campus

Second place: Logan St. Lawrence, Central Campus

Third place: Aaron Chavez, Central Campus

For more information, visit sanjac.edu.

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