Winners of Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge Showcase Craftsmanship in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary

June 23, 2026

FDOE Press Office 850-245-0413 [email protected]

Winners of Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge Showcase Craftsmanship in Celebration of America's 250th Anniversary

Tallahassee, Fla., June 23, 2026 - Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas is proud to announce the winners of the Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge, recognizing outstanding student craftsmanship and creativity in honor of America's 250th anniversary.

"As we recognize America's 250th anniversary, this competition highlights the innovation and technical skills developing across Florida's career and technical education programs," said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. "These student projects reflect the hands-on learning experiences that are strengthening Florida's workforce, preparing students for success in high-demand careers and positioning Florida as the national leader for workforce education."

The Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge invited students from Florida's public secondary and postsecondary institutions to design and create original metalwork inspired by the 250th anniversary of the United States. Submissions were designed to be durable, long-term installations intended to remain on campuses or within communities as lasting commemorations of this historic milestone.

The Florida Department of Education is pleased to recognize the following winners:

Commissioner's Choice:

Technical Excellence:

People's Choice:

These students and programs represent the strength of Florida's workforce education system and demonstrate why Florida is number one in workforce education and talent development. Since taking office, Governor DeSantis has invested more than $12 billion in workforce education, expanding opportunities for Floridians to gain hands-on training opportunities aligned to high-demand careers. A key part of that effort is Florida's growing apprenticeship system, which combines paid on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. By connecting students directly with employers, these programs create pathways to earn industry-recognized credentials while building the skilled workforce Florida's businesses need.