iJAG student wins statewide skilled trades competition

Our drive to jobs in skilled trades is creating sparks! As employer partnerships continue to grow, so do opportunities for our students. 

Just last week, iJAG student Matthew Deshamp of GMG High School earned first place in a welding competition open to students across the state. The competition took place at the Skilled Trades Convention hosted by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Iowa. 

Nearly 50 iJAG students attended the convention to participate in a career fair, hands-on demonstrations, and engage with employers about career pathways related to plumbing, machinery operations, welding, carpentry, and more. 

Several iJAG students prepared and participated in a variety of competitions throughout the convention. Deshamp placed first among nearly 50 competitors in the welding challenge which featured an onsite demonstration of techniques, problem-solving, and knowledge about related tools and machinery. 

The ABC Skilled Trades Convention is just one of many ways we help our students put their passions into practice.