Forge the Future: FFA Build-Off

Official Contest Rules

Theme: Build a fully functional fire pit using only the provided steel kit. Be creative, be bold, and show off your chapter’s welding skills.

Provided Materials

• 1 pc 2″ x 2″ x 1/8″ Angle, 20′
• 1 pc 4′ x 8′ x 3/16″ Carbon Plate
• 1 pc 3/4″ #9 Expanded Metal, 4′ x 8′
• 1 pc 2″ x 11ga Square Tube, 20′ (Primed)
• 1 pc 3/4″ Round Stock, 10′
• 1 pc 3/16″ x 1 1/2″ Flat Strap, 20′
• 2 pcs 4″ Bullet Hinges
• 1 pc 2 3/8″ OD SCH 40 Pipe, 21′

You do not have to use every item, but you may not add any additional materials. Materials must be returned if your FFA Chapter does not participate after signing up.

Judging Criteria (100 Points Total)

• Creativity (50 Points): Originality, design, and overall visual impact.
• Use of Materials (30 Points): Effective and innovative use of the provided materials.
• Welding Quality (20 Points): Strength, finish, and craftsmanship of all welds.

Judging & Media Requirement

3 judges will review all entries and score them based on the criteria above. Highest total score wins.

Each chapter must take at least 5 photos or short videos during the project and submit them with the finished piece. These will be used for the Forge the Future recap video and future competitions.

Eligible Counties

FFA Chapters in the following Oklahoma counties may participate:

• McCurtain
• Choctaw
• Pushmataha
• Pittsburg
• Latimer
• Leflore
• Haskell

Timeline

• August 15: Contest announced
• October 15: Deadline to sign up (20-chapter limit)
• November 1: Materials delivered by Alford Metals
• December 15: Completed fire pits delivered to Alford Metals Red Oak location
• January 15: Winners announced on the Alford Metals Facebook page

Prizes

• 1st Place: $2,500 credit
• 2nd Place: $1,000 credit
• 3rd Place: $500 credit

Remaining fire pits will be donated to the Oklahoma Auction School to be auctioned for charity events of their choice.

Participation Waiver

As an official participant in the Forge the Future: FFA Build-Off, the undersigned agrees to the following:

• Safety Responsibility: All student fabrication must be supervised by an adult instructor or school-approved supervisor. Proper PPE (gloves, eyewear, welding gear) must be worn at all times.
• Material Use: Only the materials provided by Alford Metals may be used in the fire pit build. No outside steel or parts are permitted.
• Media Permission: Alford Metals is granted permission to use any submitted photos/videos for marketing and promotional purposes.
• Liability Waiver: The school and instructor acknowledge responsibility for the safety of all participants and agree to hold Alford Metals harmless for any incidents that may occur during the course of the project.

By signing below on the registration form, you confirm that you have read and agree to these rules and waiver terms.