Southeastern Technical College's (STC) Michael Crumpler served as a judge for the 35th Annual Outstanding Apprenticeship Competition hosted by Ironworkers Local Union 709 Southeastern District Council.
The competition brought together the best in ironworking, with representatives from fourteen Union Ironworking Apprenticeship Centers across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and to Tennessee showcase their expertise.
Mr. Crumpler's role as a judge involved assessing weld plates and burn plates in the competition held in Pooler, Georgia, on Wednesday, June 12. Weld plates typically test the strength and integrity of weld joints under specified conditions, while burn plates evaluate the cutting precision and technique used in burning through metal plates. A Thursday luncheon was held to celebrate the apprentices who excelled in the various categories and acknowledge the efforts of all participants.
"Michael Crumpler is an exemplary instructor who inspires his students and peers to be their best. It is such an honor to have him represent Southeastern Tech as a judge at the apprentice competition," said Sonya Wilson, STC Dean of Industrial and Environmental Technologies.
"It was a privilege to be invited to judge this competition. Observing the exceptional performances of these welders was inspiring. The Ironworkers have an outstanding apprenticeship program. Their representative comes to STC each year to speak with our students about the great opportunities that lie ahead of them," stated Crumpler.
Mr. Crumpler's career spans 33 years in the welding profession. He has been a welding instructor at Southeastern Technical College for 24 years. He holds professional certifications through the American Welding Society as a CWE (Certified Welding Educator), CWI (Certified Welding Inspector), and CWS (Certified Welding Supervisor). Since becoming a CWI in 2005, he has administered over 1,300 welding certification tests to students and employees of various companies, showcasing his extensive knowledge and expertise in welding inspection. In recognition of his dedication to welding education, he was awarded The Section Educator Award by the AWS in April 2024.
