5 Easy Ways to Support the Welding Community During National Welding Month

By Cindy Weihl, senior editor of the Welding Journal.

Reprinted with permission: The AWS Welding Journal

Thinking of ways to support and celebrate National Welding Month this April? There are practical things we can all do to both support the industry and keep it growing.

1. Boost Up Your Local Welding Programs

Individuals and businesses can support local welding programs by donating time, materials, and money.

“Running our welding shop on a six-period day, with about 30 students per class, takes around $30,000 a year. This includes metal, welding consumables, equipment consumables, gas, and repairs. I encourage community members to contact their local welding programs to see what donations they could use. Anything from fulfilling the need for safety glasses to flat monetary donations to metal or consumable donations can go a long way in assisting students. Volunteering also plays a critical role in developing a successful welding program. Guest speakers, guest lecturers, etc. all provide a richer context into the curriculum. The more people and collective knowledge students are exposed to, the better prepared the students are for the world of work.” — Justin Pickard, welding instructor, CWI, and CWE, Paso Robles High School, Paso Robles, Calif.

2. Like and Share

Social media is used by billions of people around the world. Make sure you’re following the people, companies, and organizations that inspire you.

“Social media is a powerful tool that enables the welding industry to connect with a wider audience and to showcase the amazing work that welders do every day. By leveraging the power of social media, we can highlight the latest innovations, share knowledge and best practices, and foster a sense of community among welders all over the world.” — Roque Corona, digital marketing manager, AWS, Miami, Fla.

3. Increase Generational Communication

Strike up a conversation with a newly hired graduate or seek some advice from an experienced colleague. Improving communication between generations can have a positive impact on everyone in the workplace.

“My focus during National Welding Month and throughout my tenure as 2023 AWS president is on closing the communication gap in the welding industry. There are currently five generations of welding workforce, each with their influences and values. By 2028, Generation X will outnumber Baby Boomers. It is imperative that Boomers actively mentor Generation X, Generation Z, and Millennials coming into the workforce and that all generations adapt and learn from each other so that no industry wisdom is lost and the industry experiences a seamless transition to the incoming generations.” — Dennis Eck, 2023 AWS president

4. Connect with the Industry

Getting involved in your local AWS Section and joining other industry organizations will not only increase your own professional contacts and pave the way for jobs and business opportunities, but it can also serve as a way to give back to up-and-comers by providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to grow in the industry.

“AWS Section involvement is very beneficial for a variety of reasons. The opportunity to network with people who share the same interests and enthusiasm about the industry opens the door of opportunity. Being able to converse with other welding professionals is invaluable for career advancement and continued involvement. Section meetings and tours provide a better understanding of the welding/fabrication industry as well as to opportunities for professional development and continuing education. The level of Section involvement you can give is up to each individual but is welcome by all of those already involved.” — Timothy Kinnaman, AWS District 1 director

5. Never Stop Learning

Whether it’s a class to learn a new skill, an online seminar to gain more knowledge, or a new certification to grow your career, it’s important to continue to support the welding community by staying on top of the latest techniques, trends, and equipment.

“I believe continuing education is the key to success. Over my career as an educator, I have not only benefited from additional training, but my students have too. Most recently, I was able to enroll in a two-week AWS CWI seminar where I was well prepared to sit for the CWI exam. Although I had originally successfully sat for this exam in 1993, I realized that over a few decades things had changed. Hence, I wanted to learn about the new technology and techniques before I took my renewal. I found the AWS seminar to be very thorough and engaging. I credit this seminar in helping me to pass the test. Hence, continuing education is the key to help us and our industry grow. Taking advantage of it will surely catapult your career to the next level.” — Matt Scott, welding instructor and department chair, Portland Community College, Portland, Ore. 

You can find out about all of AWS’s National Welding Month activities at aws.org/nwm2023.