Since 1996, the American Welding Society has recognized April as National Welding Month to build awareness of the welding industry and the skilled professionals who keep it moving forward. In 2026, AWS marks the 30th anniversary of this nationwide observance under the theme, “Celebrating Welding Since 1996.”
For three decades, National Welding Month has spotlighted the tradespeople, educators, inspectors, engineers, and leaders whose work quite literally holds our world together. From bridges and buildings to pipelines, power generation, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, welding remains foundational to progress.
National Welding Month celebrates both the achievements and dedication of individuals in the industry. It highlights the discipline, skill, and pride of today’s professionals, and also encourages future generations to pursue welding as a career.
“Certified to build the world, welders power infrastructure, manufacturing, and innovation across the globe,” says Carey Chen, AWS Executive Director and CEO. “This National Welding Month, we celebrate the skilled professionals who make modern life possible.”
Throughout April, AWS celebrates the people, the work, and the opportunities that make welding essential—past, present, and future —through special programming, social campaigns, member promotions, and industry giveaways.
HIGHLIGHTS OF NATIONAL WELDING MONTH 2026
My Welding Story on Instagram. Every welder has a story, and we want to hear yours. Throughout National Welding Month, AWS will spotlight stories from across the welding community, showcasing how welding has shaped careers and lives. Featured stories will include AWS 2026 President Dr. D. Joshua Burgess, who has a full-circle story to share. A new story will be shared each weekday on Instagram Stories.
Weld Wednesday Podcast Special Episode. Host Jason Becker and his special guests discuss unique career paths in welding, sharing how they got started, what skills matter most, and what advice they have for anyone exploring a future in the trade.
Welding Facts and Stats. Throughout National Welding Month, AWS will share eye-opening stats across our social media channels about the welding industry, from workforce demand and career opportunities to the role welding plays in building the world around us. Follow along, stay informed, and share your perspective.
What It’s Like to Be a Welder Video Series. Step into the boots of welders, fabricators, educators, inspectors, and boilermakers. This behind-the-scenes video series on social media highlights a range of welding career paths and showcases the diverse opportunities the industry has to offer.
Video Challenge. How did your welding journey begin? This National Welding Month, help us celebrate 30 years of NWM by sharing your story and shining a light on the people behind the trade. Your video could inspire someone to start a career in welding and help build awareness of the industry.
Post a short video (15–30 seconds is perfect), tag @americanweldingsociety, and tag 1–3 friends, mentors, or coworkers to share their stories too. Everyone who participates will be entered into an “AWSome giveaway,” and select videos may be featured on AWS social channels.
Welding Around the World. Welding builds more than just structures—it builds connections. See how welders worldwide have found careers, communities, and purpose through welding. Join the conversation and celebrate welding’s global reach.
30 YEARS OF CELEBRATION
Throughout April, AWS will share archival highlights, past campaign moments, and community stories that reflect how NWM has evolved since 1996.
National Welding Month is an opportunity to celebrate the people and professions that shape our workforce, strengthen infrastructure, and drive innovation in manufacturing. AWS invites the welding community to take part in this month-long celebration by engaging in activities that honor every facet of the industry and those who keep it moving forward.
for more information
The American Welding Society is the worldwide authority in the development of standards, certifications and educational programming for the welding, allied joining and cutting community. We are a not-for-profit organization committed to connecting the welding industry to our extensive collection of resources, informing our community of technological advancements and developing the next generation of welding professionals with the help of the AWS Foundation. AWS serves over 60,000 members worldwide, is composed of 22 Districts with 250 Sections and Student Chapters, and includes more than 1500 volunteers in over 200 technical committees, subcommittees and task groups. For more, visit the American Welding Society’s website at www.aws.org.
About AWS Foundation: Founded in 1989, the AWS Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the American Welding Society, the nonprofit organization with a global mission to advance the science, technology and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes. The AWS Foundation works to ensure the growth and development of the welding industry through various initiatives, including career awareness, scholarship programs, and grants to institutions that offer welding education and training. As a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, we rely on the generosity of our partners who understand the value of welding and its role in building a better, stronger economy.