Learn more about the scholarships and grants supported by the AWS Foundation, as well as how to apply.
We Move Welding Forward
We Move Welding Forward
Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.
By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.
The AWS Foundation
The AWS Foundation
Supporting The Welding Community
The AWS Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the American Welding Society. The Foundation ensures the growth of the industry through career programs, scholarships, and grants to institutions that offer welding education and training.
Get Involved
Get Involved
There are lots of ways for members to get involved with the American Welding Society: Member Network, Sections, Student Chapters, and more.
Our Programs and Culture
AWS Governance
AWS Governance
Our leaders have in-depth knowledge to support experienced welders, prospective students, and independent welding shop owners. AWS Members can also nominate candidates for president, vice president, and director-at-large; you can also have a say in our standards by joining a technical committee. See the details below.
AWS Leadership / Governance
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I nominate candidates for President, Vice President, and Director-at-Large?
AWS members who wish to nominate candidates for President, Vice President, and Director-at-Large on the AWS Board of Directors for the term starting January 1, 2028, may either:
- Send their nominations electronically by July 24, 2026 to:
Malisa Mercado at (mmercado@aws.org)
C/o Richard L. Holdren
Chairman, National Nominating Committee
or
- Present their nominations in person at the open session of the National Nominating Committee meeting scheduled for 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada during the 2026 FABTECH Show.
Nominations must be accompanied by biographical material on each candidate, including a written statement by the candidate as to their willingness and ability to serve if nominated and elected, letters of support, plus a 5-by-7-inch head-and-shoulders color photograph.
Note: Persons who present their nominations at the Show are responsible to provide 20 copies of the biographical materials and written statement.
- Send their nominations electronically by July 24, 2026 to:
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Who are the past Future Leaders?
2022-2024
Robert Watson, Welding Engineer, General Motors Corporation
Brandy Killeen, Program Director & Welding Instructor, West Virginia Northern Community College2020-2023
Hannah Wolf, Instructor for Related Metals & Metal Fabrication, Madison College2020-21
Andrea Orr, Research Engineer, Ford Motor Company2020
Gabrielle Bettengnies, Mechanical Design Engineer, System Technologies Inc.2019
Mitchell Grams, PhD. Candidate at Canadian Centre for Welding and Joining, University of Alberta Victoria Shekastehband, Intern, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions. -
Where can I find a list of Scholarship and Grant recipients?
Check out the list of Scholarship and Grant recipients in the AWS Impact Report.
Inside D. Fred Bovie Library and Museum
Work at AWS
Work at AWS
We’re committed to giving everyone the opportunity to learn, develop, and grow. Learn about open positions with our organization here.