The American Welding Society is an organization that provides guidelines and standards for the protection and development of the welding field. It was developed when two existing welding committees were joined by President Woodrow Wilson. The AWS was created to provide reference materials and guidelines for welders to follow. Through the years the AWS has also developed certification standards and safety procedures that welders today use daily.
The American Welding Society has published many periodicals and guides related to the welding field. The code books they have produced are used as reference guides for welders. The letter/number combination system is used to designate certain methods and guidelines that welders can refer to for more information on the particular method they are using. The codes produced by the AWS contain more than 100 codes and procedures to assist welders in finding the correct method and material to use in their projects.
The AWS also publishes the Welding Journal on a monthly basis. Included in this publication are articles related to welding, new discoveries on materials and science and industry news. Many welders subscribe to the Welding Journal and find the articles to be very informative and helpful.
To become certified by the American Welding Society, welders are required to take and pass a detailed exam. The exam covers general knowledge, specific information included in the AWS Code books and a practical exam which tests the welder’s ability. Once you become certified you must renew your certification every nine years.
For more information or to become a member click here. Several membership options available for individuals, companies, and students.
Resources:
- American Welding Society (AWS) – www.aws.org
- Careers in Welding – www.careersinwelding.com
- Welding Certification – www.weldingcertification.com
