Three generations of welding teachers from Colquitt County High School: From left, Ray Nicholson, Chris Naquin and Tim Hobbs.

Colquitt County High School hosted its fifth annual welding competition March 4. Forty-seven students, the largest number to date, from seven school systems participated.

Tulsa Welding School in Jacksonville, Fla., sponsored the competition and awarded a $500 scholarship to each participant. The top five winners each received gear, including a helmet, gloves and other welding equipment.

First place winner Juan Sierra of Colquitt County was awarded a full scholarship to Tulsa Welding School. Second place winner Jared Brown, also of CCHS, was awarded a 50 percent scholarship there and third place winner Will Canetto of Screven County High School received a 25 percent scholarship. CCHS students Cameron Newsome and Alejandro Jiménez placed fourth and fifth, respectively.

Other sponsors included Lincoln Electric, Victor Technologies, Miller, Jones Welding, and Air Gas.