Joliet Central High School junior Salvador Figueroa was awarded a $20,000 scholarship to attend welding school after winning first place at a regional welding competition.

Figueroa took first place among competitors from Joliet Central, Joliet West, Grundy Area Vocational Center, Lockport, Wilco Area Career Center, Crete-Monee, Lincoln-Way, Plainfield East, Elgin and West Aurora high schools. The event showcased the technical skills and craftsmanship of students from across the region.