LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The next generation of women welders will compete for top honors for the second year.

WDRB's Keith Kaiser learned what it takes to win when the competition heats up.

David McCoy, Senior Welding Instructor at Pleasure Ridge Park High School saw more and more girls getting interested in welding over his 22 years.

The idea for a competition came a couple of years ago and recruited the help of UA Local 502.

They had 36 competitors for the first competition last year with about $15,000 worth of donations.

This year starting Monday, January 29th, it becomes a two-day event, 61 competitors with more than $20,000 worth of donations.

Girls in high school welding programs at schools across the state are eligible.

The skill requires attention-to-detail and focus.

Students were separated into groups based on their ages and tested on basic knowledge, skills and techniques.

They are judged on how well they complete welding projects and blueprints.

Good luck to the "Future Women in Welding".

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