American Welding Society Calls for Nominations for Fifth Annual Image of Welding Awards

MIAMI -- The American Welding Society (AWS), the world's largest organization dedicated to advancing the science, technology and application of welding, is seeking nominations for its Fifth Annual Image of Welding Awards. The awards are issued in seven categories and the winners will be announced at the Image of Welding Awards Ceremony to be held on November 12, 2007 during the FABTECH International and AWS Welding Show at McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. The awards recognize individuals and organizations that have shown exemplary dedication to promoting the image of welding in their communities.

Awards categories are as follows: Individual; Section (AWS local chapter); Large Business (200 or more employees); Small Business (less than 200 employees); Distributor (welding products); Educator; and Educational Facility.

"Raising public awareness about welding is vital to creating a positive image for the industry," said Jim Horvath, chair of the AWS Image of Welding Subcommittee. "Every year, welding professionals triumph in inspirin

g young adults to join the field. Their passion helps to transform current mindsets from believing that a career in welding equates to working in a dusty, dirty environment. While that may have been true 20-30 years ago, it is not necessarily true today. In fact, in an effort to combat welder shortages, more welding shops continue to step-up their recruiting techniques and even overhaul workspaces to become well-lit, clean and organized. As a result, welding careers have become more popular over the last few years, but the shortage issues are nowhere near resolved. Many people are still unaware of the critical role welding plays in our society and the excellent career opportunities available. Honoring those who are driving real improvements for this industry encourages others to get involved."

Nominations will be judged by the Welding Equipment Manufacturers Committee (WEMCO), a standing committee at AWS that is composed of executives from welding industry suppliers to promote the welding equipment market. Enhancing the image of welding as a critical industry is among their priority programs.

To nominate an individual or organization for an award, please send a written explanation of the nominee's qualifications, along with your name, phone number, email and mailing address, to Adrienne Zalkind at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or by postal mail to AWS Image of Welding Awards, 550 NW LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida, 33126. Deadline for submissions is August 15, 2007.

About AWS

The American Welding Society (AWS) was founded in 1919 as a multifaceted, nonprofit organization with a mission to advance the science, technology and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, AWS serves more than 50,000 members worldwide and is composed of 22 Districts with more than 200 local Sections. For more information, visit the Society's website at http://www.aws.org and click on "pressroom."