Monroe Environmental Supports Annual High School Welding Competition and Launches New Welder/Fabricator Certification Program
Dated May 12, 2026
Monroe, MI – As demand for skilled welders continues to grow, Monroe Environmental is actively seeking talented individuals to join its team—and recently had the opportunity to see some of the region’s brightest future welders in action at the Annual High School Welding Competition held Friday, April 24 at the Monroe County Community College.
The competition showcased the best emerging talent from area high schools, with four high school seniors selected to compete in each category: GMAW, GTAW, SMAW, and Combined Welding. Students demonstrated their technical skills and craftsmanship while competing for prizes and scholarship opportunities awarded in each category.
As a sponsor of the event, Monroe Environmental proudly supported the competition by providing giveaway items and participating directly in the judging process. Gene Paul, Shop Manager at Monroe Environmental, served as one of the event judges, helping evaluate the students’ work and recognize excellence in welding skills.
“Events like this highlight the talent coming up through our local schools and reinforce the importance of creating pathways into skilled trades,” said Mike Knabusch, HR Manager at Monroe Environmental. “We are always looking for dedicated individuals who want to build rewarding careers in welding and fabrication.”
Mike Knabusch, Monroe Environmental HR Manager, Stephen Hasselbach, Monroe County Community College Welding Instructor, and Gene Paul, Monroe Environmental Shop Manager at high school welding competition
Monroe Environmental also used the event as an opportunity to introduce its new Welder/Fabricator Certification Program, designed specifically for high school seniors and young adults under the age of 25. The program creates a direct pathway into the welding profession by allowing participants to work while learning the trade, earn college credits with free tuition, and secure guaranteed employment throughout the process.
The program reflects Monroe Environmental’s commitment to investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals and addressing the growing demand for highly trained welders.
By partnering with educational institutions and supporting hands-on learning opportunities, Monroe Environmental continues to help strengthen the local workforce while providing meaningful career opportunities for young adults entering the industry.
For individuals interested in welding careers or learning more about the Welder/Fabricator Certification Program, Monroe Environmental encourages prospective applicants to reach out for additional information.
About Monroe Environmental
Monroe Environmental designs and manufactures custom air pollution control and water/wastewater treatment systems for industrial and municipal applications worldwide. The company specializes in engineered environmental solutions, maintaining a strong commitment to quality craftsmanship, workforce development, and investing in future generations of skilled trades professionals.
