GENTRY, AR — Gentry High School students in the Agricultural Metals program have achieved a 100 percent pass rate on industry welding certification testing administered by a certified instructor from the United Welding Institute.
Fourteen students participated in the certification process, including three students from last year’s class who returned to complete testing and eleven students from this year’s course. Three of the participants were female students, highlighting the growing representation of young women in the skilled trades.
As part of the certification requirements, students completed a hands-on welding performance examination. Each student was required to perform a lap weld on two pieces of metal within a four-hour time frame, meeting established industry specifications.
Following the on-site performance exam, completed welds were transported to the institute for further evaluation. The welds underwent a destructive bend test conducted according to certification standards. This testing process evaluates weld penetration, fusion, and structural integrity to ensure compliance with professional quality requirements.
Those receiving the certification were:
Seniors: Courtney Lawson, Olivia Scribner, Bailey Malone, Jeremy Chotraw, Jaxson Holt, Cooper Williams, Jessie Wilson, Will Kelm, Aiden Blevins, and Gregory Jones.
Juniors: CJ Bolinger, Draven Ward, Jaxon Morgan, and Landen Drake.
All 14 students successfully passed the examination and earned certification through the American Welding Society (AWS), the nation’s leading organization for welding standards and credentials.
Earning an industry-recognized credential while still in high school provides students with a competitive advantage as they pursue employment, apprenticeships, or postsecondary education in the skilled trades. The 100 percent pass rate reflects both the technical proficiency of Gentry students and the strength of the district’s Agricultural Metals program.
For more information about Gentry High School’s Career and Technical Education programs, please contact Gentry High School.