Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV
October 21-23, 2026
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Where Innovation Takes Shape
“Innovation Without Limits,” the theme for FABTECH 2026 reflects the industry’s focus on what’s possible. The American Welding Society builds on that idea, highlighting the people, standards, technologies, and opportunities that turn new ideas into practical solutions for the welding and materials joining community. From technology and education to certification, workforce development and community, AWS is bringing the many dimensions of welding innovation together at FABTECH 2026.
Visit Our Booths for Interactive Features & Resources
- Main Booth & AWS Foundation: S29112
- AWS Bookstore: S29116
Learn. Advance. Lead.
Learn. Advance. Lead.
Whether you're a student, educator, professional, or executive, FABTECH offers learning opportunities to help you meet your goals.
- AWS Welding Track: Earn PDHs and CEUs while exploring emerging technologies, materials, and industry best practices.
See Full Schedule - Professional Program: Dive into research-driven presentations and technical insights that address critical issues in welding and materials joining.
See Full Schedule - Poster Session: See what’s next from the next generation. Explore student research and innovations pushing the boundaries of welding today.
See Full Schedule
Be Part of the Conversation
Be Part of the Conversation
Best Practices in Welding Apprenticeship Panel
- Hosted by Joe Young, AWS Foundation
- Room: S217
- October 21 | 2:00-3:00 PM
On Wednesday, October 21, from 2:00–3:00 p.m. in Room S217, Joe Young of the AWS Foundation will moderate the Best Practices for Welding Apprenticeships panel. Joining him will be Catherine Brumbaugh of Lexicon, Ami Burns of Vermeer and Jennie Traut-Todaro of the American Institute of Steel Construction. Together, they will share practical insights into building effective welding apprenticeship programs, including mentorship, training standards, retention, funding and strategies for developing welders from entry-level through journey-level.
Panelists
Catherine Brumbaugh, Lexicon
Ami Burns, Vermeer
Jennie Traut-Todaro, American Institute of Steel Construction
Weld Wednesday Live at FABTECH 2026
- • Hosted by Jason Becker, Arc Junkies Podcast
- • AWS Main Booth S29112
- • October 21–23
Join Jason Becker and industry guests for live recordings of Weld Wednesday straight from the AWS booth. Each episode features candid conversations on welding careers, certifications, shop life, and the evolving skilled trades landscape. Audience Q&A included.
Live Episode Schedule
Handheld Laser Welding with an Ex-SpaceX Engineer
Guest: Rex Alexander
Discuss the latest advances in handheld laser welding, where the technology works best, and what manufacturers should know before adopting it, including weld quality, safety, training, applications, limitations, and return on investment.
The Next Generation of AWS Certification
Guest: Richard Arn + Blake Craft + Richard Holdren + Chip Eskridge
Discuss the latest developments in AWS certification and credentialing. Explore what is changing, who each program is designed for, and how these credentials can support career growth and industry needs.
Bringing Automation into Welding Education
Guest: Roger Sanders
Discuss the integration of robotics and automation into secondary, post-secondary, and workforce training programs, and what this means for the future of welding education.
AWS SOCIETY EVENTS
AWS SOCIETY EVENTS
Celebrate the AWS Community
AWS hosts a variety of valuable events exclusively for members. Catch up with fellow members, find out who won National Awards and Foundation Scholarships, network with industry professionals, and more.
Team USA 2026 WorldSkills Welding Competitors
Team USA 2026 WorldSkills Welding Competitors
Come meet competitors Mikala Sposito, Benjamin Cornaby, and CJ Parks at the AWS Booth (S29112) to learn what it takes to compete at the “Olympics of Welding.” Hear about their experiences preparing for the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, and representing the United States on the world stage.
Breaking the Mold: Women in Welding Panel
Breaking the Mold: Women in Welding Panel
On Thursday, October 22, from 3:00–4:30 p.m. in Room S210, women shaping the welding industry through education, sales, specialized fields and skilled trades will share perspectives on their careers, challenges and accomplishments. The discussion will feature personal stories, including that of Mikala Sposito and her journey as the first female U.S. welding competitor at WorldSkills, explore expanding opportunities for women, overcoming industry barriers and inspiring the next generation of welding professionals.
Date/Time: Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 3:00-4:00 PM
Location: Room: S210.
WEMCO Excellence in Welding Awards and AWS Foundation Ceremony
WEMCO Excellence in Welding Awards and AWS Foundation Ceremony
Honoring the Individuals and Organizations Shaping the Industry's Future
Presented by WEMCO and the AWS Foundation, this annual event honors the individuals and organizations shaping the future of welding.
Awards will be presented across categories including:
Individual | Educator | Educational Facility | Small & Large Business | Distributor | AWS Section | Media | Veterans
Date/Time: Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 2:30-3:30 pm
Location: FABTECH Theater, Las Vegas Convention Center
Open to all FABTECH attendees.
Arcs & Ales
Arcs & Ales
Happy Hour
Host: Jason Becker
Date/Time: October 22, 2026 | 6:00-8:00 PM
Location: Yard House at The LINQ, Las Vegas
Unwind with fellow welding professionals over drinks, appetizers, and great conversation at Yard House at The LINQ. Enjoy the spacious venue and outdoor terrace, just a short trip from the convention center. Space is limited and individual registration is required.
RWMA's Happy Hour at FABTECH
RWMA's Happy Hour at FABTECH
Join the Resistance... for a Happy Hour!
Date: October 22, 2026
Time: 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Taylor-Winfield Technologies, Booth #S39004
Relax, network, and connect with top resistance welding professionals at the annual RWMA Happy Hour—your exclusive opportunity to unwind after a full day on the FABTECH show floor.
Promotions & Giveaways
Custom Helmet & Course Giveaway
Win a custom welding helmet along with complimentary access to a self-paced AWS course of the winner's choice.
Join AWS On-Site
Join or renew your AWS membership with promo code FABTECH2026 to be eligible for the following giveaways:
- AWS Individual and Corporate Members: 15 months for the price of 12
- AWS Early Career Members: Chance to win 1 of 5 exclusive AWS hats
AWS Bookstore Discounts
We’re offering huge savings on AWS publications and toolkits sold at the show at the Bookstore Booth. Nonmembers can enjoy 40% off, while members can rack up savings of 55% percent off. Replicas and 3rd party pubs are excluded from the offer. Also, when you buy from the bookstore, you’re entered for your chance to win a copy of either D1.1 or D1.5.
#MyMemberStory –
2026 Edition
Tell us what AWS membership means to you by completing the quick survey.
Then, stop by the AWS booth at FABTECH to see your name and membership milestone featured in our member recognition showcase.
Looking Back to Move Forward
FABTECH 2025 connected thousands of professionals, sparked new ideas, and celebrated the people who make this industry strong. In 2025, we’re expanding those opportunities to learn, connect, and lead.
“FABTECH is my favorite event of the year. It’s an opportunity to catch up with old friends, meet new ones, network with industry leaders, and see amazing machines in action.”
“The absolute BEST part of the week has to be the AWS networking events! The opening reception, Women in Welding breakfast, and Arcs & Ales are can’t-miss events where I’ve met many amazing people. FABTECH is the industry reunion that grows every year.”
Stay Informed
Get the latest FABTECH 2026 updates, including schedules, micro-session agendas, and event registration details.