<![CDATA[Vocational high school (SMK) in Indonesia plays a crucial role in preparing skilled workers ready to enter the industrial world. However, many SMK graduates have not met the Indonesian National Work Competency Standards (SKKNI) in the field of welding, particularly for OAW, SMAW, MIG/MAG, and TIG methods. This has resulted in a decline in the competitiveness of SMK graduates in the job market and indicates the need for targeted training programs to improve technical competence and job readiness. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of SMAW welding training in improving the competence of SMK graduates. Training plays an important role in improving the knowledge, skills, and work attitudes required by industry. With targeted and continuous training, SMK graduates not only have better technical abilities but are also able to adapt to technological developments and work standards. An appropriate and continuous training program aims to improve the competence of SMK graduates, not only in technical skills, but also in competency certification, self-confidence, and job opportunities. The research method used is qualitative with observations of nine SMAW welding training participants at PT XXX in 2025. The results showed a significant increase in the participants' abilities. The average participant's proficiency increased from 40% before the training to 70% after. This improvement reflects a better mastery of welding techniques, application of work safety procedures, and understanding of industry quality standards. In conclusion, systematically designed and continuous SMAW welding training has proven effective in improving the knowledge, skills, and work readiness of vocational high school graduates. This program can be used as a model for welding competency development in other vocational education institutions]]>
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