Hayes heading to national welding championship in June
Waylon Hayes, a senior at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, qualified for the Project MFG National Welding League Championship on June 5-6 at Ferris State University. Selected from over 350 students nationwide, he is one of 24 competitors vying for a $10,000 cash prize. Hayes successfully completed two qualifying rounds that involved fabricating projects, including a scale model of an Army tank. He expressed excitement about the competition, stating it provided an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in welding. Currently employed at ARM USA, Inc.
, Hayes plans to pursue a career in welding after graduation, possibly applying to a local union. His welding instructor, Todd Parker, praised his dedication and enthusiasm for learning, calling him an exemplary student. The national event will also be featured in the reality series "Clash of Trades — Welding Edition," further highlighting the significance of this competition. Hayes's success marks a notable achievement for the JVS, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for real-world challenges.