AWS FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM 2026
Become an AWS Future Leader
Become an AWS Future Leader
2026 Applications Open
The AWS Future Leaders Program is a career-transforming opportunity for early-career professionals looking to step into leadership within the welding industry.
Gain unparalleled access to industry experts, contribute to AWS’s governance, and shape the future of welding. Our mission is to empower the next generation of leaders with diverse perspectives, ensuring the welding industry reflects the needs of tomorrow.
Applications open annually from January 1 – April 30.
Apply by April 30 to be considered for this year’s program!
WHY JOIN THE AWS FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM?
Shape the future of welding. Gain mentorship, leadership experience, and industry connections while representing the next generation of welding professionals.
Term
1–3 years as an AWS Future Leader
Board Experience
Attend two AWS Board of Directors meetings annually, including one at FABTECH. Travel, lodging, and per diem covered by AWS
Mentorship
Learn from AWS leadership and industry experts
Committee Involvement
Participate in AWS policy-setting committees and special initiatives
Networking
Build relationships with industry leaders and influencers
HOW IT WORKS
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RESPONSIBILITIES
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ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
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DESIRED ATTRIBUTES
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MEET OUR FUTURE LEADERS
Overview
- Serve up to a three-year term, beginning January 1st.
- Attend two (2) AWS Board of Director Meetings (spring and fall) and participate as a non-voting member. Attend all AWS Board of Director Orientation and Training Sessions at the Board Meetings.
- Join FABTECH and other key AWS events.
- Participate in AWS orientation, training, and policy-setting committee meetings
- Work with a mentor (a member of the AWS Board of Directors will be assigned as mentor)
- Understand Board of Director meeting protocol
- Sit with Board of Director mentor at meetings
- Actively engage in local AWS Section activities and contribute to the community.
AWS Covers:
Travel expenses
Lodging and per diem for all required meetings and events
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Future Leaders Program, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- AWS Membership: Must be an active AWS member.
- Age Range: Between 18 and 35 years old on January 1 of the program year.
- Education & Experience: To ensure diversity within the program, one participant will be selected from each of two categories every year
Option 1: Minimum HS Diploma or equivalent, as well as be a CWI, welder, or welding educator.
Option 2: Minimum 4-Year Degree, as well as be an engineer, scientist, professor, business, sales, or marketing personnel.
Desired Attributes
We’re looking for applicants with strong leadership potential. If you’ve demonstrated any of the following, your application will stand out:
- AWS Scholarship recipient
- SKILLS participant (list ranking at state, national, or world level)
- AWS Leadership Symposium attendee
- Active involvement in AWS Sections/Student Chapters
- Experience as an AWS Section or Student Chapter Officer
- Participation in AWS Committees
- Community service and leadership initiatives
Danea Buschkoetter
Danea Buschkoetter
2026 – 2028
Danea is a Laser/Cobot Specialist at Lampton Welding Supply in Beloit, KS and is an AWS Associate Welding Inspector. She serves as Vice Chair of the AWS Kansas Section and is Ambassador Chair for Crew Collaborative. She holds a B.S. in Applied Technology from Fort Hays State University and an associate degree in Welding Engineering Technology from North Central Kansas Technical College. Danea previously worked as a community college welding instructor and is dedicated to advancing the welding professional through teaching, leadership, and service.
Zack Sanders
Zack Sanders
2026 – 2028
Zack is a degreed Welding Engineer with a B.S. from BYU-Idaho and currently works for Civian Lasers in Rexburg, ID. Zack’s father had both Navy and millwright experience and sparked his interest in welding. Zack was the first welding engineering intern from BYU-Idaho to work at Caterpillar and was hired full-time upon graduation. During his tenure at Caterpillar, Zack worked across R&D, procurement, and manufacturing, with a significant focus on weld quality systems across global facilities and suppliers. Zack is supported by his wonderful spouse and three children, who are the most important part of his life.
Alex Driscoll
Alex Driscoll
2025 – 2027
Alex is a welding instructor at Catoosa County College and Career Academy in Ringgold, GA. He earned his AAS in Welding Engineering Technologies from Chattanooga State Community College and is a CWI/CWE. Alex is heavily involved with the AWS Chattanooga Section and is the current Chair.
Erin Lalinsky
Erin Lalinsky
2025 – 2027
Erin graduated from Ferris State University with a bachelor’s degree in Welding Engineering Technology. She is the Welding Engineer in charge of the Kuka Robotics USA Tech Center, a certified welding inspector, and a future chair (in 2029) of the AWS Detroit Section.
Edward Peterson
Edward Peterson
2024 – 2026
Edward Peterson is a degreed Welding Engineer with a B.S. from LeTourneau University in Longview, TX, is an AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), and is a past chair of the AWS Houston Section. He currently works for Laser Welding Solutions, LLC., a laser cladding and build-to-print job shop, as their Welding Engineer and Manager of Quality Control. Edward is involved in the development of the codes covering metal additive manufacturing as Vice Chair of the AWS D20 main committee and an active member of the AWS D20B and the API 20S subcommittees.
Get inspired by current Future Leaders who are making a difference in the welding industry to learn how they are shaping the future of welding and contributing to AWS and their communities.
APPLICATION TIMELINE
Program Year 2027–2029
Participant Testimonial
My teachers got me into welding, and I want to give that same guidance to other students. AWS meetings bring together everyone from daily welders to business owners—everyone’s input is valuable.
Welding isn’t a mindless trade—it’s constantly advancing with new technology, and the community must keep up.
Shape the Future of Welding
Joining the Future Leaders Program gives you the opportunity to:
- Gain real-world experience by participating in high-level AWS governance.
- Enhance your career with visibility and networking opportunities at AWS events.
- Expand your influence and become a key player in shaping the welding industry’s future.
Don’t miss out on this transformative experience.
Apply today and take the first step toward becoming a leader in the welding industry.
Take the lead. Shape your future. Make an impact on the welding industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who can apply?
Any current AWS member aged 18–35, actively working in the welding industry.
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How long is the term?
Future Leaders serve 1–3 years, participating in AWS Board meetings, committees, and special projects.
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Are travel expenses covered?
Yes. Travel, lodging, and per diem for AWS Board meetings are included.
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What is expected of AWS Future Leaders during their term?
Future Leaders actively participate in AWS Board meetings, engage in policy-setting committees, and contribute to projects supporting the welding industry.
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When is the application deadline?
Applications are due by April 30, 2026.