Published April 22. 2026 12:12PM
Keegan Hackett, a Northampton Area High School senior and welding student at Bethlehem Area Vocational-Technical School, recently earned top honors at the 55th annual American Welding Society District 3 welding competition.
The event, held March 11 at Warren County Technical School, brought together 20 students from 10 technical schools across the region to compete in a series of hands-on and technical challenges. Competitors were evaluated on multiple welding processes, including shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding and oxy-fuel cutting. In addition to the practical portion, students completed a written exam covering welding codes, safety standards and fundamental welding principles.
Hackett’s strong performance across all areas earned him first place, showcasing both his technical skill and knowledge of the welding trade.
He was also recognized April 15 at a dinner at Northampton Community College.
Hackett is a BAVTS co-op student employed by Szoke Brothers Welding in Slatington. He is the son of Shannon and Brenden Hackett of Danielsville.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOBrad Brandmeir, American Welding Society District 3 director and Lehigh Career and Technical Institute welding Instructor, congratulates Keegan Hackett, Northampton Area High School senior and welding student at Bethlehem Area Vocation-Technical School, for his first-place win in the 55th annual welding competition at Warren County Technical School March 11.
