Since 1996, the American Welding Society (AWS) has recognized April as National Welding Month (NWM) 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 holds our world together. From bridges and buildings to pipelines, power generation, aerospace and advanced manufacturing, welding remains foundational to progress, company officials stated in a press release.
Throughout April, AWS will celebrate the people, the work and the opportunities that make welding essential through special programming, social campaigns, member promotions and industry giveaways. NWM highlights the discipline, skill and pride of today’s professionals, and encourages future generations to pursue welding as a career.
“Certified to build the world, welders power infrastructure, manufacturing and innovation across the globe,” stated Carey Chen, AWS executive director and CEO. “This National Welding Month, we celebrate the skilled professionals who make modern life possible.”
National Welding Month 2026 Events: Podcasts, Video Challenges & Community Spotlights
My Welding Story on Instagram – 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. Visit weld.ng/myweldingstory to share your welding story. A new story will be shared each weekday on Instagram Stories (@americanweldingsociety).
Weld Wednesday Podcast Special Episode – The special “NWM Weld Wednesday with AWS” podcast airs Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with host Jason Becker and special guests who will 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 & Stats – Throughout National Welding Month, AWS will share stats across its social media channels about the welding industry, from workforce demand and career opportunities to the role welding plays in building the world.
What It’s Like to Be a Welder Video Series – 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.
Thank-a-Mentor – On Thursday, April 16 (AWS’s National Welding Month Thank-a-Mentor Day), AWS is inviting the welding community to recognize someone who made a difference in their journey. Tag a mentor in the comments on AWS’s social media post and share how they helped spark your welding career.
Video Challenge – Post a short video (15–30 seconds), tag @americanweldingsociety and 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.
Community Spotlight – Every Saturday during National Welding Month, AWS is featuring an AWS Section making an impact on their local welding community. Tag your AWS Section and share what makes your Section stand out. Your community could be next in the spotlight on AWS’s social media pages.
Welding Around the World – 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.
Exclusive National Welding Month Discounts
AWS Membership Incentives – Special offers for new and renewing members, including extended membership benefits and giveaways.
Save on AWS Books & Online Learning – 35% off the “Welding Handbook” and 15% off self-paced online courses.
National Welding Month Giveaways
AWS Standards: Bridging the Language of Welding Giveaway – AWS publishes the latest industry standards that define terminology, guide structural code compliance and support technical excellence. During National Welding Month, participants can register for a chance to win one of these publications in AWS’s Bridging the Language of Welding giveaway.
- A3.0M/A3.0:2025, Standard Welding Terms and Definitions
- D1.1/D1.1M:2025-AMD1, Structural Welding Code—Steel
- Brazing Handbook (Volumes I, II, and III) released in 2025
AWS Custom Helmet – A chance to win a one-of-a-kind AWS welding helmet.
AWS Foundation: Support the Future of Welding – AWS Workforce Torchbearers support scholarships, education and workforce development programs that inspire the next generation of welders. People who pledge $5/month receive an exclusive AWS Foundation-branded shirt and a hat.
National Welding Month celebrates the people and professions that shape the workforce, strengthen infrastructure and drive innovation in manufacturing, the organization said.