FHS student welders excel at Regional FORGE Welding Competition

FAIRMONT — A team of five student welders from the Fairmont High School (FHS) welding program recently demonstrated skills and professionalism at the FORGE Initiative Welding Competition. The student welders competed against top programs across southern and southeastern Minnesota on Wednesday, April 15.

Tatum Kabe placed fourth and Seth Siebring placed seventh in the highly competitive Large School division.

In the team portion, FHS placed runner-up to Albert Lea High School in the Large School category, and overall, placed fifth. There was .31 of a single point between third and fifth place.

There were 12 schools in Class AA and nine in Class A.

All five competitors have completed four semesters of welding coursework and are currently enrolled in the College in the Schools (CIS) welding program through Minnesota West. Their participation in FORGE provided valuable real-world experience, including opportunities to engage directly with industry vendors and employers actively seeking skilled welders.

The FORGE Initiative is a year-round collaborative effort that connects students, educators, and industry partners to strengthen career pathways in trades, manufacturing, and engineering. FORGE emphasizes meaningful, hands-on experiences that lead to real conversations, real relationships and real career opportunities.

The welding competition itself challenges students to demonstrate proficiency in both GMAW (MIG) and SMAW (stick) welding processes under time constraints, using industry-standard materials and being evaluated by certified welding inspectors.

Participation in events like FORGE continues to reinforce Fairmont’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers while building strong connections with regional industry partners.