The trio, currently studying at Muswellbrook TAFE, took out the top three places at the recent Hunter Valley Worldskills Australia welding competition.

Nathan Manwaring walked away victorious, while Dyson Lea and Corey Clare finished second and third respectively.

"We're incredibly proud of their achievement," MMS Engineering's Brad Smith said.

"Each of them was required to complete a few different positional welds for both MMAW and GMAW welding.

"And, apparently, the judging - from the initial set-up through to completion - set a very high standard.

"The event comprised of 18 youngsters from similar companies in the local and greater Hunter Valley areas.

"The winners usually have the chance to represent their business and TAFE at a higher level.

"Unfortunately, our apprentices are all too old to go to the state championships.

"Corey, who claimed third, missed out by only a matter of two months."