There’s a good chance you’ve seen them competing for the Libby High School scholastic teams, but a sizable group of young students are working toward learning the trade of welding.

Nearly two dozen current Loggers have passed their G1 American Welding Certification Test while two others have passed their G3 test. Four students are working toward 6G certification.

Mort Curtiss’ class has 22 that have passed with two others still working on becoming G1 certified.

“With more and more welders retiring, there continues to be a real demand and the trades are really booming right now,” Curtiss said. “There’s a fabricating shop in Spokane where certified welders can make up to $110 per hour.”

The classes give students six credits for high school and college through a long-time partnership with the Flathead Valley Community College’s Lincoln County campus.

Those achieving G1 certification, which means they are allowed to weld in the flat position or the 3/8 inch limit, include Tristan Andersen, Bridger Bache, Urijah Bache, Payton Freeman, Brody Gilmore, Tristan Hibbs, Gabe Kosters, Tryp Lisle, Ian Thom, Nikolas Buckner, Dalton Cannon, Hannah Guerra, Olivia Hennigan, Cole Patriquin, Dennis Smith and Dominic Thom.

Two passed the G3 test, including Parker Bache and Addison Skranak. Those certified at G3 may weld in the flat, horizontal and vertical position. 

Four seniors are 3G certified and working for their 6G pipe certification, including Connor Benson, Joel Goodman, Khonnor Peterson and Garrett Place. The testing will be done in May.

“G6 is the top of the line certification where they can weld on any thickness of steel,” Curtiss said.

Certified Welding Inspector Mort Hill does the judging of the student’s work.

John Love, who used to lead the welding program, and several Libby students were involved in  many community projects. They built a bike rack and installed it at the Libby Chamber and Visitor Information Center five years ago.

They also made the steel sign and chain saw cut outs for Logger Stadium.

    Libby High School juniors Addison Skranak and Parker Bache have both achieved their G3 welding certification. (Scott Shindledecker/The Western News)
  

    Libby High School junior Dominic Thom holds a welded piece of medal as classmates Ian Thom and Parker Bache observe. (Scott Shindledecker/The Western News)