American Welding Society’s Custom Training Programs: A Pathway to Success

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, skill development is crucial for vocational careers. It ensures employability, boosts earning potential, and fosters personal growth,

enabling individuals to adapt to technological advancements and contribute to economic prosperity. Towards this direction, training can play a vital role in developing the

skills and knowledge needed for effective performance, whether in a professional or personal setting. It enhances productivity, improves quality, reduces errors, and fosters

a more confident and engaged workforce. Hence, training is considered a crucial investment that yields significant returns in terms of individual and organizational success.

The impact of training: How upskilling & reskilling benefit individuals and organizations

Training equips individuals with in-demand skills, making them more attractive to potential employers and increasing their chances of securing jobs, especially in competitive

job markets. Skill development through training can lead to promotions, new opportunities, and increased earning potential. When individuals acquire new skills and become

proficient in their roles, their job satisfaction and confidence naturally increase. In fact, skill development goes beyond professional growth; it can enhance critical thinking,

problem-solving abilities, and adaptability, contributing to overall personal development. Training helps individuals stay relevant in a constantly evolving job market by

equipping them with the skills to adapt to new technologies and industry changes.

Training benefits organizations too by improving productivity, enhancing employee satisfaction, and fostering a more competitive workforce. Well-trained employees are more

efficient and productive, leading to better overall organizational performance. Training helps bridge the gap between required skills and the skills possessed by employees,

ensuring the workforce is equipped to meet job demands. Organizations with a skilled and trained workforce are better positioned to compete in the market. Providing training

and development opportunities can make employees feel valued and increase their loyalty to the organization. Training can foster a culture of continuous learning and

improvement, leading to a more engaged and motivated workforce. Investing in training can be more cost-effective than relying solely on hiring new employees, especially

when considering the costs of recruitment and onboarding.

Vocational professions and training

Vocational professions, in particular, significantly benefit from workforce training. Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial for professionals in these fields to stay relevant,

competitive, and adapt to evolving technologies and industry standards. Periodic training helps them stay current with industry trends, acquire new skills, and enhance their job

performance, ultimately leading to increased career opportunities and earning potential. Like many other vocational occupations, welding is also a dynamic profession due to its

diverse applications, continuous technological advancements, and the ongoing need for skilled professionals across various industries. The welding industry is constantly evolving

with new technologies like robotic welding, laser welding, and automated systems. Welders need to adapt to these changes and learn new techniques to remain competitive. The

need for specialized certifications and continuous training ensures that welders stay updated with the latest industry standards and practices.

American Welding Society’s Focus on Lifelong Learning

The American Welding Society (AWS), with its focus on “developing the next generation of welders” (www.aws.org), draws its welding core values from its mission and vision to

make a global impact. Significantly, one of the core values of AWS is “Encouraging continuous education as a fundamental activity of welding industry professionals throughout

their careers”, which highlights the organization’s emphasis on lifelong learning. Towards this end, the organization offers a variety of custom training solutions that are tailored to

meet the needs of individuals and companies.

Popular AWS Custom Training Programs

Popular AWS Custom Training Programs include (but are not limited to) –

Welding Inspection & Certification

Welding Inspection / Certified Welding Inspector (CWI);

Welding Symbols & Welding Safety;

WPS/PQR Development;

Welding Coordinator.

Industry-Specific Codes & Standards

AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel; AWS D1.1 Welding Procedure Development; API 1104 Pipeline & Related Facilities; API 1104 Welding Procedure Development; API 

570: Piping Inspection Code; API 571: Damage Mechanisms in Refining Industry; API 580/581: Risk-Based Inspection; AWS D17.1 Fusion Welding for Aerospace Applications;

ASME Section IX; ASME B31.1 Power Piping; ASME B31.3 Process Piping – Design, Construction, and Mechanical; ASME B31.4 Liquid Pipelines and ASME B31.8 Gas

Pipelines: Introduction to ASME Pressure Vessel Inspection (Section VIII Div. 1)

Specialized Training

Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS); Certified Welding Educator (CWE); Resistance Welding; Welding Economics; HDPE/RTR Non-Metallic Piping Certification; Construction

Contracting; Pre-stressed Concrete & Structural Welding; Methods & Materials for Construction Projects; Mechanical Testing of Welds and Base Metals

NDT Training

• Introduction to NDE; Dye Penetrant Testing; PT Procedure development; Magnetic Particle Testing Basics; MT - Procedure Development

• AWS also develops fully customized training based on the client’s unique needs.

• AWS Custom Training Program Formats

• Depending on one’s needs and preferences, AWS offers flexible modes of training options. Clients can choose from in-person, online, instructor-led, and self-paced online

dual format options.

i) In-person training: This format of training is delivered face-to-face by AWS instructors and SMEs in a focused classroom environment. It offers essential tools such as standards

and codebooks, culminating in an in-class practice exam. In-person training is highly beneficial as it provides individuals with opportunities to gain real-world experience. Trainees

also get the chance to learn from industry leaders and experienced professionals, get inspired by their career trajectory, and clarify their doubts immediately. They can connect with

peers during the training program and expand their professional network.

ii) Online Instructor-led training: This virtual training format provides the opportunity for interactive learning sessions led by industry experts. It offers a blend of flexibility and

engagement, providing personalized learning experiences. The interactive sessions allow for immediate feedback and foster collaborative learning among peers, offering an

extended classroom experience tailored to client needs. The AWS online instructor-led training programs are offered throughout the year for each course, making this format

a popular choice for both learners and organizations.

iii) Self-paced online training: This format provides complete flexibility and personalization by allowing learners to study at their own pace, revisit materials as needed, and tailor

their learning experience to their individual needs and preferences. It offers an extensive range of courses that are aligned with AWS certifications and standards. The courses are

presented through multimedia tools and interactive features. Learners can access these courses 24/7 from any internet-enabled device.

iv) Dual format: This format of training is ideal for individuals who want the flexibility to balance work, life, and education. Here, learners begin their training online as per their

convenience and then join live instructor-led sessions to deepen their understanding and ask questions in real-time. The dual format option has been designed to adapt to the

trainees’ special requirements, schedule, and availability.

3-Step Training & Certification Process

Step 1: Benchmarking Assessment

• AWS conducts a skills gap analysis to evaluate candidates’ technical proficiency.

• Recommendations are provided for targeted training.

Step 2: Custom Onsite Training

• Delivery: Conducted by AWS-certified instructors at the client’s facility or a mutually agreed venue (e.g., company campus, hotel).

• Structure: Combines theoretical knowledge, hands-on practice (wherever required), and a final assessment.

• Duration: Tailored per program (TAT determined based on complexity and SME availability).

Step 3: Certification

• Trainees can enroll for AWS professional certifications post-training.

The American Welding Society’s customized training programs offer significant benefits by aligning directly with specific organizational needs and employee skill gaps. The wide

range of courses, different training formats, and delivery by expert instructors ensure employee performance, boost morale, and improve overall productivity. By tailoring content

and delivery methods, AWS makes sure that the training is relevant, engaging, and impactful, maximizing its impact on individual and organizational performance.

To know more about the AWS Custom Training Programs, you may reach out to the author at p_pdchowdhury@aws.org