Stay Informed & Stay Connected

Stay Informed & Stay Connected

From our conferences and the FABTECH trade shows to poster competitions, professional seminars, certification courses, and section meetings, the American Welding Society offers a variety of industry events to help you connect with other members and reach your career goals.

Events

  • Conferences
  • FABTECH
  • Mobile Exhibit
  • Competitions
  • Professional Program
  • Other Events

Conferences

Discover innovative solutions and resources for your operations, expand your knowledge, and earn professional development hours while networking with leaders in the welding industry.

FABTECH

Discover the latest industry trends, new technology, and cost-saving solutions at North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event. Held annually in Mexico, and the U.S., and every other year in Canada, FABTECH is a great networking opportunity for the welding industry.

Mobile Exhibit

The AWS Careers in Welding mobile exhibit has been a driving force for welding education and career development. The 53-foot single expandable trailer offers hands-on exhibits and learning experiences.

Competitions

Welding competitions provide a platform for welders to showcase their skills and creativity, fostering innovation and excellence within the industry.

Professional Program

September 8 - 11, 2025
Chicago, Illinois

Submit your abstract today for a chance to present at the AWS Professional Program during FABTECH 2025, taking place September 8–11 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Don’t miss this opportunity to share your expertise.

Present your latest research results in the Professional Program, please complete submissions no later than April 1, 2025. Authors with accepted abstracts will be required to give oral presentations at FABTECH 2025 within the AWS Professional Program. They will also receive complimentary registration for the 2025 Professional Program and free access to FABTECH 2025.

Instructor's Institute

July 20 - 26, 2025

The AWS Instructors Institute provides welding instructors an opportunity to enhance and strengthen their teaching skills, experience hands-on learning of new teaching techniques, and learn more about AWS programs such as SENSE. Meeting together with other instructors, the participants will be able to communicate and share their experiences in a setting that is devoted to their specific concerns. Each year, a welding instructor is selected at each of the 22 District Conferences to attend the institute, held at AWS HQ in Doral (Miami), Florida.

Leadership Symposium

July 27 - 30, 2025

The 2025 Leadership Symposium will take place July 27 – 30, 2025 at AWS headquarters in Doral, FL.

In 1999, the American Welding Society held its first Leadership Symposium to develop the leadership capabilities of its members. During their annual district conferences, each of the 22 Districts selects one individual to represent their District at the Symposium held in Miami (Doral), Florida at AWS headquarters. Attendees gain valuable training in leadership and get the opportunity to exchange ideas with each other and AWS Staff. To date, well over 500 AWS volunteers have participated in this annual event, and many have held prominent committee roles within AWS and have served on the AWS Board of Directors.

Make New Connections

Make New Connections

Sections & Student Chapters

Member sections are the heart of AWS — these groups help local professionals connect with each other for networking and educational experiences, while student chapters help shape the next generation of welders.

AWS Member Network

Ask technical questions; exchange ideas with your peers; and find discounts on certifications, seminars, and handbooks: The AWS Member Network offers exclusive access to resource materials, education opportunities, and networking connections.

Get Involved With AWS

Get Involved With AWS

Join a Committee

AWS Technical Committees are responsible for overseeing the development of guidelines used across the industry to standardize materials, processes, and specifications — essential for quality designs and fabrications.

Support the AWS Foundation

The American Welding Society’s nonprofit organization is dedicated to advancing the welding industry through a variety of initiatives, including career training, scholarship programs, and education grants.