MWI named Garrett Lievens of EHS as eighth place winner

The Missouri Welding Institute recently named 20 winners and awarded more than $410,000 in scholarship prizes at its 11th annual welding competition.

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be no hindrance for participant enthusiasm as the 2021 competition witnessed its second-best attendance turnout in its 11-year history. The event, held Jan. 28 and 29, hosted more than 350 student competitors with winners from five Midwestern states.

Both high school and vo-tech students competed for substantial prizes over the two-day event. While each participant scored a $1,000 scholarship toward tuition at Missouri Welding Institute, the 20 winners received additional prizes to help them complete their welding education: added scholarships, a Lincoln Ranger 225 welder (valued at $4,000), and other high-quality welding tools.

The list included:

Eighth Place: Garrett Lievens (El Dorado Springs High School)

Participants also met with MWI instructors, toured the campus and student housing options, and learned more about the school’s program, which can be completed in 11 to 18 weeks. Due to the high demand for welders across the U.S. in a variety of industries, graduates can quickly be hired into a lucrative career. MWI works to help each graduate find their first job and boasts an average hire rate of 96%.

“Welding is a great trade, and also one in high demand,” said Brian Hollands, owner of Missouri Welding Institute. “This competition gives students from around the country an opportunity to not only hone their craft but also explore how to kick-start a high-paying career. Since 1994, this school has been producing some of the most highly skilled welding craftsmen and placing them in a range of exciting careers all over the world.”

About Missouri Welding Institute

Founded in 1994, Missouri Welding Institute trains the nation’s finest welding craftsmen using a hands-on approach, one-on-one attention and a family-style environment to prepare students for a successful career. Learn more at www.missouriweldinginstitute.com.