Welding Digest

The American Welding Society (AWS) and the Vietnam Welding Society (VWS) held their first annual welding accreditation and certification symposium on September 26th, 2024, at Hanoi University of Science and Technology. Over fifty attendees were present for the event, including members of Osaka University's Joining and Welding Research Institute (JWRI) and executive members from VWS. 

This event celebrated the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between AWS and VWS — a landmark agreement that strengthens the organizations' partnership and lays the groundwork for future joint initiatives in welding training, certification, and technical development. 

Also featured were presentations on international welding standards and AWS's certification programs, including Certified Welding Fabricator (CWF), Certified Robotic Arc Welding Operator, and Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS).

Attendees gained insights into the future of welding technology with the AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW) program, and discovered how green welding practices related to the CWS program can help benefit the environment and meet the country’s initiatives for carbon footprint reductions.

They also received an overview of the advantages and steps involved in becoming an AWS Authorized Testing Center for the program, a process that two organizations in Vietnam are currently pursuing. This is a crucial fabricator certification for companies exporting to the U.S. that can significantly enhance welding fabricator business opportunities.

Vietnamese business representatives and professionals who are eager to enhance their skills and credentials learned how AWS membership creates numerous opportunities for expanding professional networks, continued education, and career opportunities in the welding industry. Free student memberships were signed for all those present during this event.

Attendees also discovered how available AWS CWI/SCWI endorsements for Welding Quality Assurance Coordinator (WQAC) can help during the qualification process for becoming an ISO 14731 welding coordinator. An introduction to AWS's Accredited Testing Facilities and Certified Welder program provided attendees with details on why they are in high demand and the preferred choice for companies desiring exported welders, making these skills globally relevant and valuable.

This symposium represents the beginning of a long-term cooperation and collaboration between AWS and VWS. Special thanks to Professor Bui Van Hahn, president of the Vietnam Welding Society, and Mr. Duy Han Le from the Hanoi University of Science and Technology for hosting this inaugural event, which included the attendance of Associate Professor Katsumata Mihoko of JWRI, Osaka, University Global D&I Promotion Office.