Metal Works’ Second Annual Event Aims to Inspire the Next Generation of Tradespeople
Last week, Metal Works opened its doors for Steel & Wheels Day 2025, welcoming more than 100 high school students from 21 schools across Northern California. From Butte Valley in the north to Turlock in the south, students arrived ready to learn, explore, and get hands-on with the world of steel.
This year’s theme—“Steel & Wheels”—brought extra horsepower to the annual celebration. The event combined the precision and creativity of metalworking with the thrill of motorsport, showcasing the beauty and power of steel in motion.
What was the purpose of Steel & Wheels Day?
Steel & Wheels Day was designed to inspire students interested in welding, fabrication, and industrial trades. Throughout the day, students experienced live demonstrations from professional welders and fabricators, as well as opportunities to try out their own skills.
The day included:
- Six rig welders showcasing high-level outdoor techniques
- A full structural frame build from Metal Works’ erector team
- Full-penetration welding with ceramic backing
- Toolbox fabrication projects, where students bent, cut, and assembled 12-gauge metal into custom keepsakes
These activities gave students a true sense of the skill, precision, and teamwork required for every structural steel project. Many left with a spark—literally and figuratively—for future careers in the trades.
Watch the Action News Now interview with several high school students interested in joining the steel fabrication industry, and check out the KRCR article recapping the day.
Sparks fly when our community and industry come together
The event also featured booths and presentations from educational and industry partners, including:
- Butte College Welding Program
- McCarthy Contracting INC
- Joe Lucas Welding
- MW Welding
- Murphys Grade Welding & Repair
- Rackley Company
We’re also thankful for the organizations who sponsored snacks, prizes, and other items to make the day a success:
- MJB Welding Supply
- PDM Steel
- STI Group
- American Metals
- Precision Bolts
- Oroville Walmart
- Oroville Raley’s
- Foothill Meat
- Cerbaco Ltd.
- Voortman
- S&S Organic Produce
- Chico Locker
- Imprint Graphic Solutions
- Brown Strauss Steel
- Fosters freeze
Beyond technical training, the day also reflected Metal Works’ long-standing commitment to community and education. For more than three decades, Metal Works has partnered with Butte College and local high schools to foster learning, mentorship, and pathways into skilled trade careers.
Wait, but what was the “wheels” part of the day?
Adding an extra shine to the day, guests were treated to an impressive display of five classic and race cars from the Team 51–56 Hot Rod Group. The mix of craftsmanship, engineering, and artistry embodied the event’s theme, showing how the same materials used to build bridges, schools, and hospitals also drive passion projects like these.
The Metal Works Supply retail store was also open throughout the event, giving students and visitors a look at the materials and tools professionals use every day, from sheet steel and tubing to fasteners and welding gear.
Sparking interest in the next generation of steel fabricators
Steel & Wheels Day 2025 wasn’t just about seeing sparks fly; it was about lighting a spark in the next generation of builders, welders, and innovators. By combining education, industry collaboration, and a shared love of craftsmanship, Metal Works continues to demonstrate how steel shapes the world—and the future.