Location
Metals Technology Building
4101 Old Brownsville Road
Metals Technology Building
Corpus Christi, TX 78405
Contact Information
5th Annual Día De Los Muertos Welding Competition
Description
The Día de los Muertos Welding Competition returns for its 5th year, celebrating the creativity, skill, and dedication of Del Mar College students and community partners. As a signature event of Viking Fest 2026, this live competition honors the vibrant cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos while showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of welding.
Schedule
8:00 a.m. — Check‑in opens & mandatory safety orientation
10:00 a.m. — Welding begins across all divisions
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Live welding
~5:00 p.m. — Awards ceremony presents prizes and scholarships to top welders
The event takes place on Del Mar College’s Windward Campus (4101 Old Brownsville Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78405) in the Welding Labs of the Metals Technology Building and the Workforce Development Center.
This event underscores Del Mar College’s commitment to celebrating and uplifting the skilled trades that drive the Coastal Bend.
Upcoming Dates And Times
- Nov 14, 20268:00 AM - 4:00 PM (2:00 PM - 10:00 PM UTC)Available spots: 500
Questions & Answers
- How do I register for the competition?
All participants must register online by filling out this registration form. Registration must be completed prior to check-in on the day of the event.
- When will I find out my time slot and details?
Time slots and additional details will be provided on the agenda printout before the event and at check-in.
- What materials and positions will I be welding?
The contest is designed to test your skill and confidence — you won’t know the material thickness or welding position until the day of the competition. Be ready for anything!
- What is the T-Joint Division?
The T-Joint Division is a new category created to help first-year welding students build confidence and experience.
Only first-year students may enter.
Competitors will receive a print in advance to study and practice.
On the day of competition, you’ll build the project according to the print within the allowed time.
Each student in this division will also have the opportunity to take the AWS D9.1 1F Certification Test.
- What is the Brother-In-Law Division?
The Brother-In-Law Division is a unique team-based RIG welding competition:
Teams of two students compete together.
Each team member must bring their own gas- or diesel-powered welding machine (two machines total per team).
Teams must also bring two jack stands and a small table to hold a 20” pipe in a 2G position.
The weld type (2G or 5G) will be revealed the day of.
The fixture for the 5G weld will be provided.
Participants in this division cannot enter any other division since it runs at the same time.
Team members don’t have to attend the same school, but both must be registered in a high school welding program.
- Are there any special equipment requirements for the Brother-In-Law Division?
Yes — each team must bring:
Two welding machines (one per team member)
Two jack stands
Small table for pipe
Welding leads at least 50 feet long
All other tools you might need (tools may be shared among teammates, but not machines)
- Will procedures and processes be explained in advance?
Yes — all weld processes and procedures will be explained in detail during the mandatory safety briefing at the start of the competition.
