A link on the AWS website www.aws.org/certification directs users to a database that confirms certification. "This is a win-win situation. It relieves staff time in the Certification Department and reduces waiting time for employers confirming certification," says Jeffrey R. Hufsey, deputy executive director of AWS.

The AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) program has been in effect since 1976. To date, over 47,000 people have been certified as CWIs.

Certification of inspectors ensures that they can perform to an industry-standardized level. The certification process entails a rigorous review of credentials, followed by a written examination and hands-on trials.

The American Welding Society is the largest organization in the world dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and application of welding and allied processes, including joining, brazing, soldering, cutting, and thermal spray. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, USA, AWS serves almost 50,000 members throughout the world. In 2005, the AWS Welding Show - the premiere trade show for the welding industry - will take place April 26 through April 28 in Dallas, Texas, USA. For more information on AWS programs and publications, visit the Society's Web site, www.aws.org