This week, sparks are flying in the welding lab at Western Iowa Tech Community College as more than 50 young students try their hand at a trade that could shape their future.
Hosted July 21–24 on the Sioux City campus, the Youth Welding Camp gives kids ages 10 to 16 a chance to explore the art of welding through hands-on learning, guided by WITCC instructors. From striking their first arc to finishing small metal projects, campers are discovering that welding is more than just fire and steel; it’s about focus, creativity, and building something real.
The camp is offered at no cost to students thanks to a continued partnership with Scene of the Crash, a local hot rod car show that raises funds each year to sponsor the event. This is the third time WITCC and Scene of the Crash have teamed up to offer the camp, and interest continues to grow.
“Our goal is to give young people a chance to work with their hands, try something new, and leave with a real sense of accomplishment,” said Kevin Woockman, Director of Building Trades and Apprenticeship at WITCC. “Thanks to the generosity from Scene of the Crash, we’re able to offer this opportunity at no cost—and the students are having a blast while learning valuable skills.”
Campers learn the basics of welding safety and technique, but the experience goes beyond that. As they shape, fuse, and complete their own metal projects, many are finding confidence in what they can create—and some are even starting to imagine futures in welding, manufacturing, or the trades.
The camp wraps up Thursday, but for these students, it may just be the beginning.