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Taking Workforce Development into Your Own Hands.

The need for welding professionals continues to rise, while the available market for skilled workers is shrinking.

According to Welding Workforce Data, over 82,000 welding jobs need to be filled annually between now and 2028, and over 159,000 welders are nearing retirement.

American Welding Society (AWS) Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs support the future of this in-demand workforce by producing top-quality welding professionals. See how partnering with the AWS to implement your apprenticeship can enhance your organization today.

Explore AWS Registered

Welding Apprenticeship Programs.

The American Welding Society currently offers two approved Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs: AWS Certified Welder and Welding Inspector. A third, Welding Automation, is currently in development. Select a program to learn more.

AWS Certified Welder

WELDING INSPECTOR

WELDING AUTOMATION

Coming soon

A time-tested solution

To meet modern challenges.

Apprenticeships have been used as a mutually beneficial training framework for centuries. Although today’s apprenticeships are often associated with trade unions, companies and educational institutions of all sizes can take advantage of AWS Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs.

Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Center of Excellence, Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs provide structured career pathways that help you to attract recruits, develop the next generation of welding professionals, and achieve your unique goals.

Fusing theory with practice.

With the Registered Welding Apprenticeship Program, an employer works with an educational institution to provide theoretical instruction, on-the-job training, and mentorship. The apprentice is considered a paid employee and is expected to produce high-quality work that contributes to the company’s success while in training.

Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs ensure that apprentices acquire a core set of welding knowledge and skills that promote proficiency and productivity in any area through classroom and hands-on learning. Organizations also have the opportunity to tailor and refine their program based on the unique needs of their industry, specialized materials, and more.

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Benefits of joining or starting

an apprenticeship.

Instead of “bidding” for skilled labor in a competitive market, joining or starting a Registered Welding Apprenticeship Program offers the opportunity to build and train your workforce your way. Here are just some of the unique benefits you can expect when you participate in an apprenticeship program.

Reduce labor costs

State tax credits and federal funding, such as the GI Bill®, Federal Student Aid funds, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and more, can help offset the costs of starting and running your program. 

Develop your workforce to suit you

Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs are good for employees and employers alike. Apprentices earn while they learn an in-demand trade, and organizations can tailor programs to meet their needs.

Enhance productivity and outcomes

Apprenticeship programs bring education and industry together, building a bridge where businesses can access new talent, and schools can access experiential learning opportunities for their students.

Improve employee engagement and retention 

On-the-job training is core to Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs. Your apprentices not only build confidence in their skills — they also build connections within your organization. 

Build strong partnerships  

Apprenticeship programs include opportunities to collaborate with local educational institutions, workforce development boards, economic development entities, and other groups.  

Stay up to date with standards and protocols 

Registered Welding Apprenticeship Programs are designed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Labor and reflect the latest welding practices and standards.

Partner with AWS to build back your workforce.

The American Welding Society is available to assist with the initial development of your Registered Welding Apprenticeship program and broker connections from our extensive industry network.

Working with AWS, you’ll have a partner who understands the process inside and out.

Get in touch

Here’s what you can expect:
  • A nationally recognized partner dedicated to the growth and development of the welding industry.
  • Personalized attention to help tailor your program around your organization’s unique circumstances and goals.
  • Connections across industries, education, and government to help identify opportunities to collaborate, secure funding, and find additional resources to jump-start your program.

Resources to learn more.