Learn more about the scholarships and grants supported by the AWS Foundation, as well as how to apply.
WELDING TRAINING & EDUCATION FOR EVERY STAGE OF YOUR CAREER
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Education for Your Entire Career Arc
Education for Your Entire Career Arc
The American Welding Society offers some of the most comprehensive welding training and education available anywhere.
Whether you're just starting out or advancing your expertise, AWS delivers in-person and virtual learning options to fit your schedule and goals. Learn live from experienced AWS instructors, or complete self-paced online courses and webinars on your own time.
COURSE FORMATS
In-Person
Our in-person courses provide focused, hands-on preparation for certification and endorsement exams, including a dedicated recertification seminar for Certified Welding Inspectors. They provide a structured environment to review material and gain the knowledge you need to succeed.
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Online Instructor-Led
Elevate your welding career with our online instructor-led training. We offer a wide range of courses for certification preparation and professional development. Experience interactive sessions led by industry experts, receive real-time feedback, and enjoy collaborative learning.
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Self-Paced Online
AWS self-paced online courses offer flexibility and career-focused content, combining multimedia tools and interactive features to promote active learning. With 24/7 access and over 40 engaging options, these courses support critical thinking and professional growth, led by the authority in welding education.
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Dual Format
AWS Dual Format courses combine the flexibility of online learning with the personal interaction of in-person instruction, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you prefer learning at your own pace or benefiting from live instructor-led sessions, our dual format options adapt to your schedule and availability.
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OUR COURSE CATALOG
Helpful Links
Resources for Educators
AWS offers a wide range of helpful materials for educators and students alike, including scholarships, curriculum guidance, and educator certification.
Fundamentals of
Welding Curriculum
This collection of print and digital resources and learning tools can help guide program development for high schools, technical colleges, and vocational training programs.
SENSE
SENSE is a comprehensive set of minimum standards and guidelines established by AWS for welding educators to follow when developing their welding training curriculum.
Seminar and Exam Schedule
Find upcoming in-person seminars and exam dates on AWS by visiting the Seminar and Exam Schedule.
IACET
AWS is accredited by by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training.
Online Educational Library
AWS offers 13 comprehensive programs and more than 120 hours of course content, including engaging multimedia presentations and modules and 24-hour access so busy students can learn at their own pace.
Comprhensive support for your welding education journay
Comprhensive support for your welding education journay
Questions about course content?
Running into a technical issue?
Our dedicated support team is here to make sure your welding education experience stays on track. Visit our Learning Support page, select the type of help you need from the dropdown menu, and a team member will be in touch promptly.
Running into a technical issue?
Our dedicated support team is here to make sure your welding education experience stays on track. Visit our Learning Support page, select the type of help you need from the dropdown menu, and a team member will be in touch promptly.
bECOME AN AWS WELDING INSTRUCTOR
bECOME AN AWS WELDING INSTRUCTOR
Ready to turn your hands-on welding experience into a teaching career?
AWS offers opportunities for qualified professionals to develop and lead their own welding training courses or serve as exam prep instructors. Share your expertise and help shape the next generation of skilled welders.
Free Resources to Advance Your Welding Skills
Free Resources to Advance Your Welding Skills
AWS is committed to supporting welders and instructors at every level with the tools they need to grow. Explore our library of free welding education resources.
We offer webinars, technical standards, and interactive learning modules to sharpen your skills and keep you up to date with industry developments. Join a community of professionals dedicated to excellence in welding.
wELDING iNDUSTRY cONFERENCES & EVENTS
wELDING iNDUSTRY cONFERENCES & EVENTS
Stay ahead of the curve with AWS's industry-leading welding conferences.
Each event brings together top experts, the latest technologies, and forward-thinking topics to give you direct access to knowledge and networking opportunities that can accelerate your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I’m missing a certificate. What do I do?
If you haven't received your certificate after completing a course, reach out to us at awsl@aws.org, and we'll get a replacement sent to you right away.
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I need more time to complete a course. What do I do?
Need an extension on one of our online welding training courses? Email us at awsl@aws.org with your request and the reason you need more time, and we'll follow up via email.
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I can’t access my course. What should I try next?
If your course won't load or keeps getting interrupted, the issue is usually related to internet speed, an outdated browser, or browser security settings. Try these steps:
- Make sure you have a strong, stable internet connection. Mobile hotspots and dial-up connections are often too slow for video streaming.
- Update your browser to the latest version. We recommend Google Chrome Google Chrome (google.com/chrome/).
If you're still having trouble after trying these steps, call our AWS Learning team at 1-800-443-9353, Ext. 222, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
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How long is welding training?
The length of welding training depends on the program type and your goals. AWS self-paced online courses range from approximately 3 to 15 hours each, while multi-day in-person seminars typically run one to two weeks.
The AWS CWI Pre-Seminar, for example, provides 80 hours of instruction bundled across ten courses. Full welding education programs at trade schools or community colleges generally take anywhere from several months to two years. AWS offers flexible welding training formats (online, in-person, and dual format), so you can learn at whatever pace works best for you..
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What training do you need for welding?
The training you need for welding depends on the career path you're pursuing. Entry-level welders typically start with a foundational welding education program covering core techniques, safety practices, and commonly used welding processes.
Those looking to advance into inspection, supervision, or engineering roles benefit from additional AWS welding training courses and professional certification programs, such as the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS), or Certified Welding Engineer (CWEng). AWS offers welding education options for beginners through experienced professionals, including self-paced online courses, instructor-led training, and in-person seminars.
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How much does welding training cost?
The cost of welding training varies based on the format and level of the course. AWS self-paced online courses are among the most affordable options, with individual courses available as well as bundled programs like the CWI Pre-Seminar, which offers savings of over 40% compared to purchasing courses individually. In-person seminars and instructor-led programs reflect the added value of direct expert guidance.
AWS members receive a discount on welding education and training courses. Visit our Program Price List for current pricing details, or contact us to find the right option for your budget and goals.