Have you ever considered teaching? The American Welding Society (AWS) has made it easier than ever to become a Certified Welding Educator (CWE). This program is made for those welding professionals who are already in or want to be in the teaching field. The certification is designed to confirm that you have the talent, knowledge and ability to train new welders in the classroom and through hands-on training.
The tests for the CWE and for the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) are identical except that the Part C: Code Book part is not a requirement for the CWE test. You can even achieve both of the certifications at the same time if you want to. When you apply for the exam, simply check the box in the top left that says you wish to take both exams. You will have to submit the CWE Welding Instructor credentials form along with the application to take the test before you can take the exam.
If you are interested, you can find out more on the AWS site at http://www.aws.org/certification/CWE/. Here you will find information about CWE renewals, the non-exam program package, the online registration, and technical documents that may be helpful to you when you take the exam.
To make it even easier for you to achieve the CWE certification, you do not need to take the test if you are currently a CAWI, CWI, or a SCWI. If you meet these criteria, then you simply have to have a valid welder certificate, teach in a classroom environment at least part time, complete the CWE short form application and have a written recommendation that attests to your teaching ability and qualifications from your teaching supervisor.
Once you send the information in, it can take up to six weeks for the application to be processed. If you do need to sit for the exam, you need to contact AWS and find out when the exam dates are, as there are application deadlines to meet and it can delay your getting the certification. There is a way through the Fast Track Process that the process can be sped up in special circumstances.
The CWE certification is a great way to show everyone that you are an educator and a professional. Adding it to certifications you already have, such as the SCWI, will further open career paths for you and allow you to become an educator if you are looking for a change of pace from your current job. It's a good way to make sure that you will easily be employable no matter where you live or your age as good teachers are always welcome in schools.
