AWS Workforce Development Senior Manager Joe Young shares the evolution and future of apprenticeship opportunities
Why Welding Apprenticeships Are More Critical Than Ever
The welding workforce is at a turning point. Manufacturers are struggling to find skilled welders who can meet strict codes and standards—and that’s without factoring in the rapid rise of automation technologies like robotics and collaborative welding systems.
I’ve experienced this firsthand—from wielding the torch, to teaching future welders, to now building workforce development strategies at AWS. The skills gap is real and growing, but I’m optimistic. Our trade is built on resilience. And one solution gaining momentum is structured welding apprenticeship programs guided by national standards.
From War-Time Roots to Modern Welding Training
Today’s welding education looks nothing like it did decades ago. Modern facilities range from traditional setups to high-tech labs featuring robotic welders and plasma tables. But the defining feature of effective training programs isn’t the equipment—it’s structured instruction aligned with evolving industry needs.
Welding apprenticeships have deep roots. During World War II, training was done on the fly to support the war effort. That urgency sparked the creation of more structured training models, leading to the sophisticated programs we see today.
A common misconception is that only union programs offer quality welding apprenticeships. That’s simply not true. While unions like the UA, Boilermakers, and Ironworkers run excellent programs, non-union employers and trade organizations can deliver equally strong training—if they commit to structure and quality.
AWS National Guideline Standards: Building the Framework for Modern Welding
Where do we stand today? The development of AWS National Guideline Standards (NGSs) marks a significant turning point in workforce development for welding training. These standards weren’t created in isolation; they resulted from collaboration among industry experts who understood the specific needs of employers and the welding industry.
What makes these NGSs effective is their balance of structure and adaptability, ensuring they meet industry demands while allowing for flexibility in implementation. To date, two NGSs have been developed and approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship to focus on welders and inspectors, and one for automation specialists is awaiting approval. These standards serve as a foundation for structured, high-quality training that aligns with evolving industry requirements.
Welder National Guideline Standards
The AWS Certified Welder NGS outlines skill benchmarks across various processes and positions. It ensures apprentices develop industry-recognized competencies while allowing employers to customize training to fit their operations—be it in construction, manufacturing, energy, or fabrication.
Welding Inspector National Guideline Standards
The Welding Inspector NGS focuses on quality assurance, code compliance, and visual inspection techniques. It aligns with the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential, helping ensure that inspectors trained under these standards meet the industry's growing demand for safety and quality oversight.
Welding Automation National Guideline Standards
Automation is rapidly transforming the welding industry. The Welding Automation Specialist NGS, currently awaiting DOL approval, is designed to prepare apprentices for careers in robotic arc welding, collaborative welding, and automated cutting. It builds on the AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welder credential and bridges traditional welding skills with emerging technologies.
Why These Standards Matter
The AWS National Guideline Standards are more than just documents—they’re strategic tools that:
Support high-quality, scalable training
Adapt to changing technologies and industry needs
Enable both large employers and small shops to launch registered apprenticeships
Help close the skilled welder shortage by aligning training with real-world job requirements
The real challenge now is implementation. The standards are here. Now, it's about making sure they’re adopted widely—and effectively.
Ready to Build or Enhance a Welding Apprenticeship?
Whether you’re a fabricator, educator, or workforce leader, there’s never been a better time to launch or upgrade a welding apprenticeship program.
Visit weldingapprenticeship.com to explore:
Downloadable AWS NGS documents
Step-by-step guides for program registration
Tools for aligning your training with industry standards
AWS support services for getting started
AWS Foundation – Powering Workforce Development in Welding
The AWS Foundation is driving workforce development through:
Revamped Resources: The redesigned weldingapprenticeship.com offers easier access to NGS documents, program templates, and apprenticeship guidance.
National Apprenticeship Week: AWS annually celebrates apprenticeships and their vital role in building the future workforce.
Automation-Focused Programs: With a new Welding Automation NGS in the pipeline, AWS is expanding support for high-tech training pathways.
Support at Every Step: From employer engagement to curriculum design, AWS offers hands-on assistance in building successful registered apprenticeships.
📍 Visit: weldingapprenticeship.com
Final Thoughts
Welding apprenticeships are more than just skill development—they’re about shaping professionals who understand both the how and the why. The AWS National Guideline Standards offer a roadmap to do just that—build a welding workforce that’s not only ready for today’s demands but primed for tomorrow’s innovations.
Fig 1 — A welder performs a service repair at a refinery facility. (Photo by Chase Buckler, AWS Photo Contest entry.)