American Welding Society Announces Upcoming FABTECH Events and Show Specials
FABTECH is back at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL, from September 8-11. The American Welding Society (AWS) will present a week of exclusive educational opportunities and events.
Attendees will discover what’s new and what’s next for manufacturing equipment, industry-specific innovations, and advanced solutions to boost productivity and efficiency. This year's theme, “The Future of Welding is Here,” highlights AWS' dedication to connecting, collaborating, and shaping the future of the welding industry.
"AWS always brings out the big guns, featuring the best presenters in the world,” said Lawrence Bower, CWI and long-time attendee. “This attracts top talent, making the workshops and seminars superb, and the networking with other attendees truly special."
AWS Offerings
Main Booth (B29000): Learn how AWS can advance your career with educational programs and certifications. Join or renew your AWS membership with promo code FABTECH2025 to be eligible for the following giveaways:
AWS Individual Members: Get 15 months for the price of 12
AWS Early Career Members: Enter for a chance to win one of 5 exclusive AWS hats.
Enter to win a custom welding helmet.
Arc Junkies Podcast Sessions (B29000): Join Welding Industry Veteran Jason Becker as he hosts daily live podcast sessions at 10:30 AM from the newly renovated AWS booth. From starting your own welding business to navigating the leap from welder to inspector—and tackling the real workforce challenges behind the skills gap—these candid conversations include live Q&A so you can join the discussion.
Monday 9/8: Starting a Welding Business: What I Wish I Knew
Tuesday 9/9: Welder to Inspector: Making the Leap Without Losing Your Identity
Wednesday 9/10: Workforce Concerns Beyond Skilled Labor Shortages
Panel Discussion: Welding the Future: Connecting Education, Certification, and Industry. Hear from educators, employers, and workforce professionals on Wednesday, September 10 from 2:30-3:30pm during an engaging conversation on how they are working together to prepare the next generation of welding professionals. This panel will explore innovative partnerships, evolving curriculum needs, and real-world strategies to close the skills gap.
Arcs and Ales Mixer: On Wednesday, September 10, from 6 – 8 PM, head to Fatpour Tap Works - McCormick for networking, beer, soda, and appetizers (while supplies last). Hosted by Jason Becker of the Arc Junkies podcast.
AWS Bookstore (B29002): Enjoy 40% off all AWS publications and toolkits from show floor inventory (excluding replicas or third-party publications). Enter to win a FREE D1.1 or D1.5.
AWS Welding Track: Maintain certification or earn PDHs with sessions led by industry experts, focusing on best practices and new developments in welding and manufacturing.
AWS Professional Program: Attend sessions on materials joining technology and processes, including additive manufacturing.
Poster Session: Explore graphic displays of technical achievements in welding and support students competing for cash prizes.
Welding Competition (B21107): Test your skills in a high-energy challenge with daily cash prizes. $20 cash entry, Ages 18+.
AWS Foundation (B29000): The AWS Foundation awards over $3 million in scholarships, grants, and fellowships to advance welding education. Visit the AWS booth to learn more about AWS Scholarships and Grants.
AWS Foundation Careers in Welding Mobile Experience (B25110): Sponsored by Lincoln Electric and Build Submarines. Learn more about career opportunities in the welding field, be the high score on our virtual welding machines for a daily $1,000 scholarship
Join AWS members at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago to connect, learn, and shape the future of the welding industry. For more details on AWS events at FABTECH, visit aws.org/fabtech.