Contact:
George Leposky, Senior Manager-Marketing Communications
(800) 443 - 9353, ext. 416
gleposky@aws.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 18, 2005 — (NAPS)—A growing number of men and women are finding financial freedom by taking up a welding torch and beginning a new career. Here, from the American Welding Society, are ten reasons they are "taking up the torch:"

1. Welders can make more money than doctors.

2. Welding is an "excellent job prospect," says the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

3. Welders have more career choices. Engineering, computer programming, education, and science involve welding.

4. Qualified welders are in demand by many U.S. industries.

5. Welders are like athletes—great hand-eye coordination, physical stamina, and they perform well under pressure.

6. Welders work underwater, on land, in laboratories or even in outer space.

7. Welders make a difference in the world. Almost everything we see and touch is a result of welding technology.

8. Welding skills are in demand all over the world.

9. Jobs in skilled trades are expected to increase 50 percent in the next ten years.

10. You or someone you know might be a welder. Visit www.takeupthetorch.org or call 800-443-WELD, ext. 416 to learn more about welding careers.