A total of $19,000 in MTI scholarships were awarded to high school seniors at Saturday’s competition
East Peoria, IL.—Sparks were flying at Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) this past Saturday as several high school seniors across the central Illinois region competed for a chance to demonstrate their welding skills and the opportunity to win an MTI scholarship.
Twenty-one high school seniors received $500 scholarship awards, but the top prizes went to the winners of the competition:
- First Place: Nathan Richards of Limestone Community High School; awarded a $5,000 scholarship. Limestone Community High School will also receive a $1,000 donation from MTI.
- Second Place: Carson Kelly of Livingston Area Career Center; awarded a $2,500 scholarship.
- Third Place: Drew Burns of Livingston Area Career Center; awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
The MTI High School Welding Competition was held Saturday, April 17th, 2021 at MTI’s East Peoria, IL campus location. The annual competition resumed this year after being canceled last year due to COVID-19.
Director of High School Admissions, Louie Schonauer, described the importance of this year’s competition amidst the challenging times facing high school seniors: “We’ve seen talent, excitement, and inspiration from the seniors who competed today. At MTI, we’re here to offer a path after high school to those who are interested in pursuing training for a career in the welding industry.”
Competitors came from across the central Illinois region, representing the following high schools: Peoria High School, Metamora Township High School, Canton High School, Limestone Community High School, Peoria Manual High School, Livingston Area Career Center, Henry Senachwine High School, Dunlap High School, Pekin Community High School, Princeville High School, Streator Township High School, Spoon River Valley High School, and Midland High School.
The welding competition offers high school students more than an opportunity to showcase their welding talents. Participants and their families had the opportunity to tour MTI’s campus, meet with Financial Aid and Admissions Representatives, and learn more about MTI’s Journeyman Welder Programs.