More than 100 students from 14 schools competed Tuesday in the fourth annual West Texas Weld Off at Hereford High School.
Students had to demonstrate a variety of welding skills, such as wire welding and speed cutting in categories for beginning and advanced students. Advanced students had the chance to compete for an outstanding welder award.
Awards for best welder went to: Francisco Ramos of Hereford High School, first place; Aldo Delgado of Hereford High School, second place; Hunter Taylor of the Advanced Technology Center in Lubbock, third place; Juan Escabedo of Hereford High School, fourth place; and Rigo Arce of Tulia High School, fifth place.
The following students won in eight skills categories: Marco Ortiz of Post High School; Shane Brock of Tulia High School; Korey Barrett of Carrigan Career Center in Wichita Falls; Kaden Gallagher, of Hereford High School, in two categories; Rogelio Romero, of Tulia High School; and Delgado and Ramos, who were among the top welders overall.