About This Activity
This program is designed for students entering grades 10, 11, or 12 who have previously attended an IAI camp or possess foundational welding skills. Participants will have the opportunity to gain essential skills in welding safety, oxy-acetylene cutting, handheld and CNC plasma cutting, gas metal arc welding, flux-cored arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and metal fabrication. The academy will include both first- and second-year students, with the curriculum focusing on advanced techniques in welding, plasma cutting, and fabrication for second-year students. Students will also have the chance to work towards earning a credential from the American Welding Society (AWS). In addition to mastering critical welding techniques, participants will engage in a range of enriching activities to enhance their overall preparedness for the workforce. These activities include exploring various career paths within the welding and metal fabrication industries, as well as safety workshops. Beyond mastering essential trade skills, participants will engage in: • Industry Credential Opportunities • Financial Literacy Seminars • Employability Skill Development • Apprenticeship Seminar • Business Immersion Trips to local companies To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria: High school sophomore, junior or senior status in the Fall 2026 Be at least 15 years old Priority is given to students who reside within the COP ESD district. Must have reliable transportation Clothing requirements for safety: ** Participants are required to wear long-sleeved cotton shirts, jeans that can be worn over boots (with no rips or frays), high cotton socks, and leather steel-toed work boots. All participants must attend a mandatory orientation on May 28th at 6:30pm at the Industrial Arts Institute in Onaway. **Welding Academy Level 2 if for students who attended Level 1 in 2025**
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