Our Mission in Action

Our Mission in Action

Founded in 1989, the AWS Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the American Welding Society.

As a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, we rely on the generosity of our partners who understand the value of welding and its role in building a better, stronger economy. For example, with your support, the AWS Foundation awards roughly $2 million in scholarships and grants to future leaders.

Learn more about us and our programs below.

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AWS Impact Report

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Choosing a career path—or even making the choice to go back to school—can be daunting. It doesn’t have to be. AWS empowers welders and future leaders by giving them the time, space, and financial resources to hone their skills, discover new passions, and make an impact on those around them.
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Educational Initiatives

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Educational Initiatives

Scholarships

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We reward passion through national, district, and welder training scholarships. Our scholarships allow students to worry less about money and spend more time honing their skills, getting industry-recognized certifications, and finding in-demand jobs.
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Grants

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Secondary and post-secondary institutions can receive up to $25,000 in grants. Whether you need new metalworking equipment, computers, or lab materials, our goal is to help you. Together, we can enhance and improve the welding experience.
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Graduate Research Fellowships

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We want to broaden the scope of who can participate in our industry, and we do so by awarding outstanding students financial support during graduate study.
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Support Our Mission

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Support Our Mission

Your Donation Matters

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Tuition and fees—including books and supplies—can be expensive. That shouldn’t be a reason people avoid rewarding opportunities to learn, grow, and build a lifelong career. The AWS Foundation is committed to making sure students get the support they need.
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Foundation Board of Trustees

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William (Bill) A. Rice Jr., Chairman

Consultant
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Rick Richardson, Vice Chairman

Sky Cylinder Testing, Inc.
President
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Mary Bihrle, Treasurer

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David Abe, Trustee

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products
VP Strategic Accounts & Market Development
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John Bray, Trustee

Affiliated Machinery, Inc.
President/Owner
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Carey Chen, Trustee

CGI Manufacturing Holdings LLC
Chief Executive Officer
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Jeff Deckrow, Trustee

Hypertherm (Retired)
Vice President, Americas
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Michael Krupnicki, Trustee

AWS President
Jessica Marhefke

Jessica Marhefke, Trustee

Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
Vice President & General Manager
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Jenny McCall, Trustee

WESCO Gas & Supply 
President
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Robert (Bob) G. Pali, Trustee

Past AWS Treasurer
Scott Strawn

Scott Strawn, Trustee

Lincoln Electric Company
Director, Global Applications and Education
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Elizabeth (Liz) Stropki, Trustee

Consultant
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William (Bill) A. Visintainer, Trustee

Atlas Welding Supply Co., Inc.
President/CEO
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Robert W. Roth, Secretary

AWS Interim Executive Director & CEO