NATIONAL SENIOR
WELDING
COMPETITION
High School Seniors. Compete Against the Best in the Nation.
WHAT YOU GET
More than a competition — it's a launchpad for your welding career.
AWS Certification Testing
Live AWS certification testing on-site. Pass the bend test and walk out certified.
$100K+ in Scholarships
Massive scholarship pool and prizes awarded to top performers.
Free Dinner & Event Night
Join us the evening before at KWI — event kicks off at 5:00 PM, catered dinner at 5:30, followed by shop tours and dorm walkthrough. All free.
Free Food All Day
Competitors and guests eat free on competition day. We keep you fueled so you can focus on welding.
Limited Edition NSWC Hat
Enroll at KWI and receive an exclusive limited edition NSWC competition hat.
Meet Hiring Managers
Connect with top welding companies and hiring managers from across the country.
Same-Day Enrollment
Enroll the same day for 25% off Registration Fee + receive an exclusive KWI hat.
Limited Competitors
An elite, limited field. Limited spots available — register early.
Live 2G & 3G Weld Test
Compete in live SMAW 2G and 3G open root weld tests judged by AWS inspectors.
EVENT DETAILS
National Senior Welding Competition — SMAW 2G & 3G Open Root Weld Test
April 3, 2027
Kentucky Welding Institute — 1828 Maysville Road, Flemingsburg, KY 41041
Showcase the best high school senior welders in the nation with scholarship opportunities and AWS certification.
Must be a current high school senior enrolled in a welding program. All skill levels welcome.
REGISTRATION PRICING
PAST WINNERS
Real competitors. Real scholarships. Real careers launched at the NSWC.
← Scroll to see all winners →
2026 CONTEST PHOTOS
Straight from the welding tents at this year's National Senior Welding Competition.