There is no secret to passing the CWI. All it takes is a lot of studying. Experience as a welder - 10%, studying the materials and developing good reading skills - 85%, good luck and the grace of God - 5%.

Best regards - Al

We actually think alike sir.

I tried in my response not to insert my opinion as to qualifications but to lead in order to develop proper skills prior to the exams.

I discourage many people who come to listen to my classes through our local section on 'Preparing for the CWI Exams'.  Notice the word "Preparing".  I do not teach the exam.  I do not teach the portions of a code book to tab and highlight in order to study ONLY what is needed for study and to pass the exam. 

I show people what the job is really about and tell them that most of them aren't qualified for the work even if they are qualified for the exam.  There is a BIG difference.

Then, we go through what they need to learn in order to be truly ready for both the exam and the work. 

You are totally correct with your quote from the Code of Ethics.  But then, I can think of many other portions of that code that disqualifies many people as well and they are still out there.  Not my job to turn them in.  The market eventually weeds many of them out. 

From scratch?  YES, WAY TOO MANY.  Not always their own fault.  I know companies that walk up to shop personnel and tell them 'we need a cwi and you were chosen to go take the exam next month.  Don't worry, there's a seminar first to teach you what you need to know to pass it and they will give you all the books.'  Yeah right. 

But, even when one is highly qualified, it is still the employer's duty to make sure you are 'qualified' to accomplish what is needed for the jobs you are working for them.  Further training should never be skipped.  If nothing else, a company's QC manual is often different from the applicable codes enough to need reading through. 

And I also am a critic of engineering firms doing welding inspections just because they can.  MOST are not qualified. 

Mike, don't know if the current comments hit you or not, just take them as an opportunity for constructive criticism and learn everything you can to make sure you aren't one of the guys we are talking about.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

I will be taking mine in July (Jacksonville) or Aug in Charlotte. I started last nov/Dec with the AWO online class and to be honest I think it was a "waste".  It does give a lot of information....actually WAY more than is I have heard is on the test. I spent about 2.5 months going through it and taking notebooks worth of notes but most was a lot more in depth than ive seen on any practice test.
I took WelderBrent advise a few months back and bought WIT, WIT workbook, Visual Inspection workshop book, API 1104 study guide(and code book) and I already had the Certification manual(which is an old edition). I have been concentrating on reading those and feel a lot more confident even though there are still areas I need to work on.
This guys classes are very good and centered around the actual material: http://www.weld-procedure.com/freecwipartbhelp.html

**** Caution - there is a guy on ebay that sells "practice questions" that are straight from the Certification manual and API study guide - he just copies them and binds them so don't be fooled by some of those   ;)

Mike,

If you are already a member of AWS you should have gotten the section email notices for 2 meetings I already did on preparing for the CWI exams.  There will be one more concentrating on Part 'B'.  These have been held at the AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship School on Thomas Rd just off the 17 so far and I'm hoping they will host the last one later in June.  Let me know if you are interested.

My section sponsored meetings are not a training class to give you the answers to pass the exam.  They are not to help you so you don't need the seminar.  They are meant to help you PREPARE for the seminar and exam with information, suggestions on self study, and other helpful ideas so you are mentally prepared for that day.  This way the seminar is not a last minute cram that has you all worked up and tired by Saturday when you should be refreshed and ready for the exams.

Brent

Thanks Brent and others my two books I order should arrive tomorrow also have a lead on d1.1 code book and few others on the list I can borrow. I work for engineering firm in Az for 10 yrs do all there special inspections including welding. With my studies so far I have a lot to learn and I know there been a lot of short cutting and not following the AWS code here in AZ.I have a lot of certifications and the CWI is my goal with all your advice I will probably study all the material I can get my hands on, put the test off for 30-90 days so I can focus on the material I receive at the seminar

Mike (an assumption on my part from your handle),

Let me back up a little here and tell you 'the rest of the story'.

Anyone who has been here very long will tell you I actually have a history of detailing every one of the references listed on the application pages for the CWI exams in the 'Self-study Suggested Reading' area.  Including the ones you will get for free when you go to the seminar.  That's what I did and I highly recommend. 

Then as Gerald said, the Welding Handbook series is a great reference and the one he suggested is great for study prior to the exams.  It is not listed as suggested study for self-study prior to the exam, but the content is exactly what is needed for the General Knowledge, Part 'A', portion of the exam.  It is more complete and thorough than the WIT book and may open up some trains of thought that are missed otherwise. 

With these books in hand, study several hours per day, every day for 6-12 months.  Then, take the seminar.  Now, you can take the exam the same week, but as Al and others have said at various times, wait a couple of months then take the exam.  The problem sometimes is added travel and time away to do it that way. 

As is often stated when someone asks questions similar to yours, the seminar is not a crash course to crank out inspectors.  It is a refresher and update opportunity to see where you need to tweek past experience and education in order to make the best possible score to pass the exam. 

It is true, I can pretty well guarantee that those you take the class with, 50% will fail.  In fact, it would not surprise me if 60-70% fail.  Most fail because they simply were not ready either by experience, knowledge, or both.  Many will fail because they don't take it serious and party at night or go sight seeing or visit with family and/or friends in the area.  And there are other reasons. 

This is not an easy test, even after self study and taking the seminar. Anyone who comes on here and says otherwise, only passed because they had the needed background and/or aptitude to make it seem easy to them.  Don't be fooled, it is not EASY.  PERIOD. 

Thus, I highly recommend staying at the hotel even if you live in the same town.  Take the week off work.  Don't talk to family.  This is your life for the week. 

Because of that stand, I have taken some heat previously.  Makes it quite expensive.  Well, you have to spend money to make money.  How many times do you want to take this exam?  How soon do you want to be able to say, I PASSED?  How much money do you really want to spend?  Re-taking the exam is not cheap all things considered.

The route you are going is better than what many will do.  You can see it in their faces by the second day of the seminar.  As long as you get a codebook, you are not setting yourself up for failure, but there may be even more things you could do to make it even better.  Especially when, by your own admission you do not have a LOT of experience in either welding or inspections.  So, start studying and keep with it.  Hit it hard because the end of July is not that far away now. 

Just my two tin pennies worth.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

Agreed.

I believe, that even though we may have slightly different views of the source of the problem and the way to remedy the situation, overall we agree that there is no perfect answer and that some program is better than none. 

There are and always will be unscrupulous people who will try to circumvent any system.  There will also be people and/or companies who see a certification as the end and that they can now do anything without further study, training, experience, etc. 

The fault, in many ways, lies with the customers/clients who do not research a 'CWI' or 'ATF' close enough to make sure they can actually accomplish what needs to be done.  But then, they are trying to come to the 'EXPERTS' because they don't know how to do it themselves and don't know if the testing agency is competent or not nor how to find that out. 

Brent

It is my opinion based upon limited experience that reviewing all of the information within  the BOK is needed. ESPECIALLY if your core knowledge and experience is "limited".

There is a thread at https://app.aws.org/forum/topic_show.pl?pid=3315 that may have some reading as there are many others on the subject of preparing for the CWI exam.

In my opinion you should obtain the skills and knowledge BEFORE the certification. Study to become an inspector not certified.

I have always been a "Self Study" person for the CWI exams and it has worked, however I have observed many with little experience asking some odd questions during breaks between parts. Not saying you can't do it. There is nothing to loose really (other than saying "I passed the test 1st time" and some $$) but that's of no interest to many.

Below is text from the above linked thread

1) Study all you can about welding technology. Welding Handbook Volume 1
2) Understand the meaning of terms and definitions including those used for describing discontinuities. Welding Handbook Volume 1
3) Get a basic undertanding of metallurgy. Welding Handbook Volume 1
4) Receive a basic introduction to the capabilities of various welding
processes. Welding Handbook Volume 1
5) Receive a basic introduction to NDT methods, capabilities and
limitations. Welding Handbook volume 1
6) Be familar with the available codes and standards that are used and how they are applied and their jurisdiction. Welding Handbook Volume 1
7) Get a basic understanding of Safety Issues related to Welding and Allied Processes. Welding Handbook Volume 1
8) Get a job in the welding field using some or all of the information
above. Life
9) Get the code book you have been using at work and understand how it is laid out. Pick a code
9) Take the test on the code you use at work or any other code since the code portion is open book.

Of course from my experience in the field and from talking with others the
above method is not practical since it takes years of being interested in
the science of welding and many hours in the bathroom reading.
------
All of the above may not help you but I do highly recommend a copy of the "Welding Handbook Volume 1" to be located in a convienient location for random reading. In my opinion studying because of interest is much better than studying for a test. Retention is much better, years vs months.

I have never been through a formal course so I am not familar with the extent they cover all of the curriculum. But maybe this is of use.

I like the fact that you are studying well in advance of the seminar and examination. The online courses seem to be useful gaging from the comments I've heard from several people that have used them. The only issue is that one does not "own" the canned courses. You have a limited time to study and complete the exercises.

My preference would be to study prior to the seminar, take the AWS CWI seminar, delay taking the examination for two to four weeks. The delay is to allow one to study the course materials handed out during the seminar.

Many people attending the CWI seminar only want to cover the material that will be on the examination. The examinations cover the full breadth of the materials included in the study materials handed out in the seminar. The catch is, the examination is based on the Welding Handbooks, the course materials are a boiled down version of the Welding Handbooks. The purpose of the seminar is to tweak, to elaborate, and to expand upon on the study materials handed out during the seminar. The instructor does not know exactly what questions will be on the examination. Everyone knows what subject matter will be covered by the examination, there are a million and one ways the subjects can be covered by the examination questions. So, cover just what will be on the exam! How, when the instructors are not privy to the questions on your specific examination?

Good luck and study everything. Even if you don't have a specific exam question about the information you just studied, it will prove to be useful when you start your inspection career.

As for which code to use for the examination; use the code you are familiar with if you work where a code is used. To me, it makes very little sense to study a code that one isn't already familiar with or one that doesn't apply to the industry one would like to work in. The open code book examination evaluates whether one can locate specific information quickly. It is not interpretive, it simply determines if one can locate the information and apply it to a simple problem. It is detail oriented and requires one to find information using text, illustrations (figures), and tables. One must study the code to understand how to apply it. There are many inquiries here on the Forum that are fairly illustrative of how a question can arise and how to find the answer. They are probably excellent preparation for the examination. 

Good luck - Al

I don't often disagree with Brent, but in this case I have to...
The CWI tests (3 in total) are difficult, even for people with lots of welding and inspection experience.
While the tests are multiple choice, which makes any test easier, many of the questions are worded in a way that gives more than one correct answer, of which you have to choose the most correct.
Also, the tests have a pretty tight time limit, so knowing the code book and how to navigate it is imperative to passing.
The test and seminar is expensive. If anyone is going to look at you cross-eyed for spending that kind of money and not passing the test, you should consider postponing until you've had more study opportunity, or really turn up the burner on your study regimen before the test.
I don't know the actual numbers, as rumors tend to be exaggerated, but it's said that the CWI exam has a near 70% fail rate, which I believe can be attributed to folks going in un-prepared.
Finding this site is a plus for you though. Use the search function to look up past conversations containing "CWI Exam".
Tim

Hector,

The statement you quoted from the AWS advertising is nothing more than self promoting propaganda to spur use of their own system.

I'm sorry to see statements like that in order to simply promote their own pocketbook and thus take away potential work from the independent CWI's and small testing facilities with no documentation of poor results.  They win either way.  There will still be lots of people taking the CWI seminar and exam and now there are more trying to get qualified as ATF's and then welders and/or companies paying to get their welders on a national database.  AWS wins and welders just have another test to take. 

I still hold my ground that it is not JUST about the money.  But some advertising does not sit well with me when they make those statements. 

I do believe your statement about some who don't know what they are doing.  But there must be care in how this is handled.  Throwing out the baby with the bathwater won't solve the problem.  Quite frankly, I also believe there are newly accredited ATF's who do not truly know how to qualify welders.  I've seen how coupons are handled.  I've seen coupons bend tested that should not have passed visual.  I've seen other lack of training and experience mistakes on the part of the lab and welders given qualification papers that couldn't weld worth beans.  I've seen it with CWI's, education departments with a CWI, ATF's, education departments with an ATF credential, and more.

Personally, what is really needed is a seminar on qualifying welders.  One taught by the likes of Al Moore or any one of so many other highly qualified personnel after AWS has made sure they know what they are doing in this area and developed a program for it.  I'll bet that would make them a lot of money.  Even though I feel like I know what I am doing, I would take it and put my son through it as well for the documentation plus the possibility that we would learn some tricks we don't know or even some truth to replace mistakes we could well be making ourselves. 

The CWI system does not educate or certify the ability of anyone to qualify welders.  As in many areas there is always room for more training, study, and experience. 

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

More like 60-70%. 

Exams are hard to break down.  How many have taken the test before?  How many have taken the seminar or some teaching (Hobart, Real Education, union classes, etc) at least once?  How many are engineers or have some college level schooling in the subject areas?  Etc.

On average right now, less than 50% pass during each exam given from the total in the room.  How it breaks down is a crap shoot unless you have Miami's computers to figure it out.

Personal guess from taking the exam, 1 endorsement, and proctoring several exams: 1st timers without classes= 70% fail; 1st timers with class=60% fail; 2nd test= 50% fail; 3rd test and others with college and previous CWI's retaking it for multiple reasons=40% fail. 

As most in the room will be first timers either with or without the seminar, a high percentage of the room fails.  All depends upon your past experience, education, and how much self study you put into it as well as taking some form of classes.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

Ok, now it was I who 'assumed'.  Good points Henry.

See, I 'assumed' in that I read and interpreted the question to 'mean' after qualifying could the welder 'use' the electrode in question in 'ANY' welding of the specific pipe mentioned.  To which the answer is 'yes'.  But, only in the proper positions for the electrode.  And, it is more correct to exclude the positions that it would not be able to be used in.

Upon reading your post and going back and re-reading the OP I see there is great room for doubt, at least in my mind (trick question? LOL).  See, the question could well mean to ask if one can use that electrode while running the aforementioned test.  If so, I would agree with the 'NO' answer as long as the full report on the electrode does indeed indicate that it can only be used in the 1G and 1 & 2F positions which I still say you cannot use the WIT book as your final authority.  I understand your point as I have also used these in the horizontal especially on larger sections with good sized bevels.  But these are the exceptions and have very limited application. 

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

edit: and just for the record Louis, yes, I have found 'mistakes' in several of the study books for the CWI exams.  Gets one into the books checking and double checking and trying to see if my view, interpretation, understanding of the material and question is correct.  Makes us better for our jobs.  Research is a key part of our work.

Hello,

        I took the CWI Test past November and did not pass it, I am preparing to retake the test the end of this month.  I am trying to go through the test results breakdown and I have a question regarding the specific classifications.  My main question is the category
of WELDING PERFORMANCE, which has 15 questions in the test I took, 10 of which I got right.  I am trying to go through the 220 (Sample Fundamentals Exampination book, 5th. Edition) fundamentals sample book and am trying to sort the questions out in index cards for my own self study when I am on the field.  I guess I am confused if it is either part of WELDING PROCESSES.  If you gentlemen have a copy of the book, can you point out which questions fall into this category?  Thank you.

Any Merit here........http://www.cram.com/flashcards/cwi-awsd11-study-set-2404999

Richard,

First off, don't take this wrong, but your code book is way too old.  Throw it away and beg, borrow, or steal (well, let's not go that far if you want to maintain the honesty and integrity required of a CWI)  or buy a newer version.  You will be testing to the 2010 and it is very different from the version you have.  You can learn your way around it in basic principles but there is much you need to read and get used to in the new book so you can have that older version out of your mind.  It WILL mess you up.

Second, down load the free Part B book of specs and get used to it for the Part B portion because it is different from D1.1 for good reason.  See the other thread here on Part B.

Then, definitely get WIT and study.  Get the other books that go with it, WIT Workbook and WIT Sample Questions-CWI Fundamentals.  WIT-T:2008, WIT-W, and WIT-E:2008 are the order codes. 

While I agree that the Welding Inspection Handbook is a great resource and one that is not handed out at the seminar, WI:2015, as well as the Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors, CM:2008, there is no replacement for the materials and information from the WIT book and the two companions.  They are loaded with practice questions to get you used to what will be required on the General Knowledge, Part A, portion of the exam. 

I don't care how long you have been in the welding field, there is a lot more on this exam than the average person has picked up at work.  It covers brazing, metallurgy, GMAW, FCAW, SMAW, GTAW, EB, LB, SAW, PAW, all the cutting processes, carbon equivalency, inspections, safety, welding symbols, NDT, AND SO MUCH MORE. 

Make sure you go to the newest Publications book or on the website to order, some of my numbers may be old versions.  They have updated in the past few years.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

Okay,  now that I have spent the last hour trying to find it on the new website I think it is actually easier than it was before to find and download but let's go through this the easy way:

Go to aws.org .  Go to 'Certifications' , second selection from the left along the top edge.  Then, go over to the right hand side and go down to 'Certification Documents'.  Then, you will find the 'Book of Specifications' and the language you want it to download in.

All done.  You now have the Part B Book of Specifications for study for the CWI Exam.

Brent

I think for those motivated towards self study that you cannot go wrong with the AWS Welding Handbook Volume 1 9th edition, The AWS Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors (for the questions), and whatever code book you have worked with the most or anticipating working with.

The body of knowledge listed for the CWI exam is almost completly covered in the AWS Welding Handbook. Get any welding book you can find and read it.

There is also a company that has some online training that is pretty good. The company is SonSet consultants.http://www.weld-procedure.com/freecwipartbhelp.html

Thats not to say there isnt any value in a class however things learned over a week or two are different than those studied over a period of time. There are, I am sure, some great classes.

I'm finding it's helpful to, at the beginning of your study period, attend the code endorsement seminar offered at the Hobart Institute.
This seminar is followed by an exam, but you don't have to take it then, or pay for it.
This at least shows how to navigate and make sense of the specific code you're planning to test with.
You probably have the fundamentals down, but study the basics of the weld processes you're not familiar with, same with NDE.
Learn to properly use inspection tools, and that each individual code and specification has its differences. No one can remember them all, but still everyone is guilty of mixing them up.
"Never quote from a code book that is not in you hand." is good advice.
Purchase the WIT books listed in the "Body of knowledge" portion of the CWI seminar/exam application.
Use every practice exam you can find.

There's lots of good advice in the forum search history.

Tim

Going to take the CWI test in August (Chicago) one of my goals in life - Been around welding as a welder, supervisor (Have had 5- certifications in the past) and as an engineer for 30+ yrs.
I have 4+ months to prepare. What is your recommendation(s), reading, studying, etc. Books to purchase. I have D1.1 (2004) Structural welding code book (1996).
Most of my career has been in a manufacturing environment . Although a pipe fitter long ago.

Weak on the codes...

All help would be appreciated...

Relax, you are almost there.
Remember, this (Part B) is a test of your ability to ferret out info and not a "multiple Guess". Notes. Read the notes. The Devil is in the notes.
Part B was a brilliant move on AWS' part. Many of us deal with multiple codes, specs, etc. Some are totally unfamiliar to inspectors in their field of former expertise, home country or region (state 'WABO', LA County Dpty Insp., DOT, Mil Specs, for examples). So yes, I see it as a viable test of future CWIs abilities.

Being a good welder has little to do with CWI work. Just as being a marksman has little to do with Police work. Most cops never fire their weapon in the line of duty and most CWIs don't weld in the commission of their duties. I've only welded once (as an inspector) and it was only to disprove the whining welders that the Miller 8 pack was NOT the reason they could not pass a 6G Boiler Tube test. I did one side and my co-QC did the other half... no problems.

Xlnt advise (Brent) on letting the micrometer rest. I never understood why it was in the Kit. Probably as a "Ringer" to confuse the neophyte. Same with the timer/watch. Every test room I've been in had a clock on the wall.

Concerning Part B nuances...
It is cleverly composed (similar to D1.1) to confuse (maybe?...).
Not sure if it was in the original intent, but it is probably a substantial revenue generator from retest fees.
Just because it is only a few pages long does not make it easy or simple. E=mc2 is very brief right? Now who out there can make a fission reactor from that?
This is not a memorization test. I've been told that there is more than one issue of Part B. The one provided for study is slightly different than the hand out on test day.
Read every answer. Make no response instinctually.
Oh did I mention, "Read the Notes!".

Engineers and others way smarter than me have not "made the cut".
Similar to a welding test, some times you have a bad day. You've made it this far so the goal is well within sight. Your mind will free of the Parts A and C, so no pressure there on test day.
Hope this helps.

Don't feel lonely boomer, a lot of other people have done the same and a lot worse.
I recently trained 3 guys, with a much more extensive training regimen than you had, and they did the same.
2 are now CWI's after re-test, and 1 is having to test a 3rd time...

Things about part B -
Do not confuse part B with D1.1. Part B is it's own stand alone spec and has test questions designed to catch you answering from D1.1 memory. Look up the exact Part B answer for each question.
Be careful with your measurements. Most calcutaions are within 1/32" of acceptance or rejection.
Be sure you know how to accurately use a weld gauge, many people have misunderstandings about these.
Re taking the VI workshop is a good idea.
Son Set Consultants has a reasonable 40 hour online Part B training course, if you need it.

Keep studying, it's worth the effort.

Tim

P.S. - Welcome to the AWS Forum, you're wise to come here with questions.
Use the search function to review many past discussions on CWI testing and Part B.

I have recently taken the CWI Seminar and Test, and have come up short on Part B. Approximately 6-7 week before the seminar I prepped by taking the online Pre-Seminar, upon successful completion, I then purchased and downloaded the Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors, I set it up in a Loose leaf binder and did a thorough study prior to the Seminar. While taking the seminar I quickly realized that I was lacking skills with the D1.1 codebook, and spent a lot of my evening hours working with it. I worked with Part B a little, but mainly focused on Part C and D1.1. On Test day I started with Part A, and felt good about it, when moving on to Part B, I found myself somewhat out of sync, I listened to the test instructor and failed to have my tools spread out and be ready when the test started, on top of that my timing strategy failed as I was a little unfamiliar with my new Ironman watch, and failed to start the timer correctly, which bit me later in the test as I completely lost track of time. As a result I answered all remaining questions quickly (some with my best guess) and then went backwards looking them up in the codebook and amending the answers. Needless to say, I felt poorly about my performance on Part B. Moving on to Part C, the test was hard, my studies paid off, as several of the questions came easy as I had touched on the material beforehand so I left feeling good about Part C.
When receiving results I achieved CAWI and was 3 questions shy of passing Part B. Did well on Part A, not as well as I would have liked on Part C but passed.
I have fast tracked myself into retaking the Visual Inspection Workshop, and retaking the Test Part B (before the upcoming changes scheduled for Part B). I have about 3 weeks to work with beforehand, My intentions are to re Study the Visual Inspection Workbook, Better familiarize myself with the Sample Part B Codebook (trying to know exactly what types of information is contained in it, and for which types of questions the information would be relevant), and of course test myself with all available sample questions.
My weakness in the test, Procedures and Welder Qualification 14/9, and Welding Inspection and Flaws 18/11.
I will also add that I am 55 years old, a Journeyman Iron Worker, and a Certified Welder for Decades.
I am putting this out here, and humbly asking for advice relating to anything that might help in learning the required knowledge and skills to be successful in Part B Round 2 From CWIs & SCWIS that care to offer assistance. Thank You

On Tuesday, March 17th at the AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship School there will be a class to explain how you can begin now to prepare for the exam.

There will be 3 classes total beginning with this one to lay the ground work so you can get the materials you need for pre-study.  Also, getting your application completed correctly and timely so you don’t miss out.  There will be some basics on both the WIT portion and the Part B practical exam but more detail will be covered on these later.  Come to all three to make sure you are ready.

More info based upon questions I have received:
It’s a class to aid in decision making to be sure you are qualified to take the CWI exam.  It is a class to aid in study prior to the seminar and exam.  It is a class to give you an idea of the best books to get without buying all of the recommended self-study list.  It is a class to make sure the application is filled out completely, accurately and stands the best chance of not getting messed up in processing in Miami.  It is a class to make sure you get registered on time, especially for the cheapest rates.  It is a class to better understand the weld samples and tools to be used in the Part B.  It is a class to explain items from WIT and the Code books.  It is a class to help you utilize your study time best and your exam time best to increase your odds of passing.  It is a class on how to implement actions that will get you the cheapest rates on books and exam.

It Is NOT a class to give you the answers for the questions that will be on the test.  But it will help you find the answers for yourself especially during the exam.

AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship
2950 W. Thomas Rd (just west of the I-17 and on the north side of Thomas Rd)
Phoenix, AZ

Time:  6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Cost: None, free to all, even non-members

Speaker: Brent E. Boling, AWS/CWI
AZ Section Certification Committee Chairman

Greeting to our AWS members in Arizona.

Are you thinking about getting certified as an AWS/CWI?

This years' AWS/CWI Seminar and Exam will be held the last week of July in Scottsdale.  So, remember to look under 'Scottsdale' in the list of cities hosting the seminar instead of Phoenix.  Remember, your application needs to be in by June 15th, 2015. 

We are going to have a series of meetings to help you meet your goals.  This first meeting will be answering questions so you can KNOW if you are qualified, getting registered, and getting the most from your pre-seminar study time.  It will cover some basics of what to expect at the seminar and exam to fully utilize your time during the exams on Saturday. 

The first one will be held at the AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship School on Tuesday, March 17, 2015 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at:

AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship
2950 W. Thomas Rd.
Phoenix, AZ  85017

Also, the AZ Pipe Trades Apprenticeship is going to have an open house on Saturday, April 11, 2015 from 8 am to 12 noon.

Please visit our section website as we will be posting more information for you to keep informed of activities:   http://www.awssection.org/arizona/ 

Also coming up this Saturday, February 28th, is the Skills USA Regional Competition at Mingus High School in Cottonwood.  Please come and cheer on our students in this great event.

cwi course all the study material you need to pass aws cwi exam paid 500.00
sell for 250.00  computer based training .pm for more info

I'm a fairly new CWI. I took my exam last year and passed with an averave of 89% to D1.1. I have been in the business for over 15 years as an ironworker.
I plan on taking the endorsement test structural drawing reading this spring, and the study material AWS recomended was somewhat elementary (IMO).My question is does anyone have some advise on the subject or pointers that may help.
Thanks
Greg

I would like to pursue my Level III and finish my BS degree. I am more than qualified and ASNT has accepted me to sit for a ASNT NDT UT Level III.  This may be the only exam I may not pass the first time out of my CWI and all my NDE qualifications. I have been studying for the Level III very slowly but don't see a lot of Level III jobs.  I wouldn't be the best Level III but I know I would be much better than some other Level IIIs I worked for/with.  Most jobs that I qualify require a BS degree.  I have a AAS in welding technology and could probably finish a BS degree in 3 or 4 years, since most programs require a lot of prerequisites I don't have. 

The question is what is a better path for a lot us....having a Level III or having a BS degree and which to try and finish first?  I realize the Level III is more quickly attainable, If I pass but if I don't there is a lot time spent studying when I could have been taking classes towards a 4 year degree.  Traveling, working long hours, life, and studying just doesn't leave time to take classes online or at a classroom.

Currently a 4 year degree seems like it should be started ASAP, but I've already invested a considerable amount of time and money into becoming a Level III and will most likely still sit for it.  I'm willing to invest more in prep courses if I were convinced it would increase my passing success phenomenally. 

The overall goal is to be in a QA Manager type role or something involving NDE or welding since that is my experience and what I enjoy.  I performed Level III duties writing a written practice and several PT, MT, UT procedures, writing ISO 9001 and AS9100 QA programs, so I am confident I could fulfill the role but I just don't have someone willing to hire me.......yet :-)

Please be aware that the term "certification" and/or "certified welder" has many different meanings and qualification requirements.

Typically, the test requirements are determined by the material, welding process, product(s), and code that you will be providing welding support to.

Some welding codes state that welding certs expire if a particular process has not been used within 6 months, and retesting is then necessary to maintain the cert.

Then too, many employers prefer to perform their own weld testing anyway -rather than accepting certification papers provided by walk in applicants; however, copies of prior cert papers are wise to maintain because they document your track record for successful qualifications.

And, the advice offered by others is wise to heed.  Most employers do pay for the test expenses - that said, your desire to pursue certification through an AWS ATF is commendable, and it might show ambition to potential employers that could put you ahead of the pack when applying for a job - especially if that job uses an AWS code, or requires a CWI stamp on your papers.

The AWS website has a database which should list the ATF sites in your area.

As you learn to search the web some more, you may encounter some employers who offer work-study programs as well as on the job training.  And, the more you know about the various processes, materials, and welding parameters, the more likely you will be to pass welding certifications.  And, if you are wise when just starting out, you might consider giving priority to those employers with existing WPS documents to guide you during the qualification process.

If you search farther on this website, you may encounter weldors who have their own business, and who maintain their certs through ATFs.

BINGO!!! Give that man a Cigar!

You're really pushing the boundaries there Joey. Here's another angle... What has the inspection agency that you represent, clearly addressed to you what you can and cannot do with the contractor with respect to your job description and duties... Now after you digest all of that and knowing that you're a CWI, do you remember the code of conduct when you were studying for the exam? Use both sources as datum points and extrapolate from them to get the appropriate answer you seek. In other words, listen to your conscience my friend.

Respectfully,
Henry

Jeff,

WELCOME TO THE AWS WELDING FORUM!!

Since you are a CWI, look at it this way, there are inspectors who are inspectors through ICC Welding and Bolting Special Inspectors.  Some, through company programs as approved in house QC.  Some through ASNT either for NDT or even as VT.  Plus other venues.  Then, there are those who are Certified Welding Inspectors through AWS.

As Jim said, you can get the 'TITLE' of 'ENGINEER' many ways.  Most people think of someone who has completed a college course of study and gotten a degree.  Not necessarily so.  At least in the case of Welding Engineer. 

If a title is all you want, take the AWS exam if you qualify and think you can manage it but beware of misconceptions and misapplications.  There was another thread on here recently about this as well.  Went into a lot of depth with many people contributing.  I'll see if I can locate it and post the link. 

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

The study book for the closed book general knowledge portion of the CWI exam is called the WIT book for Welding Inspection Technology.  It is included in the cost for the week long seminar but you can get it from the AWS bookstore by ordering WIT-T.  AWS member cost is $204 plus shipping.  The savings on this one book is worth the cost of your yearly membership. 

From this posting, look up at the bar along the top under 'American Welding Society Online Forum'.  The second button is for 'AWS Website'.  Once there you go to the 'Bookstore' button at the top and then you can place an order.

Now, have you already taken the exams?  How do you know there are 5 questions in the Bogus Book (Part B) part of the exam?  If you are referring to the practice exams they will not be the same.  Though, there are indeed some questions on NDT in the Part B exam.  Main reason for asking, have you already taken the seminar?  You should have the WIT book if you did. 

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

Welcome to the forum!

Everyone learns differently so I would try to gain as much information as possible. I strongly Suggest the AWS Welding Handbook Volume 1- 8th or 9th edition. It has a pretty good summary of most of the topics referred to in the BOK. Itt by no means is all inclusive of every question on the test but that along with the Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors is all I used for self study. However I did not use the materials for study only. They were a daily read just because I liked em.

I am not sure what a Pre-Seminar Class is and have not taken one but I am sure for some people its extremely helpful in helping the upcoming information in the seminar soak in better.

The materials listed at http://www.aws.org/certification/endorsebok/index.html would be the place to start. One thing about the Welding Handbook Volume one is the fact that it has quite a bit of information taken from the other referenced documents.

CHAPTER 1 – SURVEY OF JOINING, CUTTING, AND ALLIED PROCESSES
Introduction
Joining Processes
Cutting Processes
Thermal Spraying
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 2--PHYSICS OF WELDING AND CUTTING
Introduction
Fusion and Solid-State Welding
Energy Sources for Welding
Arc Characteristics
Metal Transfer
Melting Rates
Physical Properties of Metals and Shielding Gases
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 3--HEAT FLOW IN WELDING
Introduction
Heat Flow Fundamentals
Quantitative Calculation of Heat Transfer in Fusion Welding
Conduction of Heat during Fusion Welding
Convective Heat Transfer in the Weld Pool
Relative Importance of Conduction and Convection
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 4--WELDING METALLURGY
Introduction
Physical Metallurgy
Metallurgy of Welding
Weldability of Commercial Alloys
Corrosion in Weldments
The Brazed or Soldered Joint
Corrosion in Brazed and Soldered Joints
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 5--DESIGN FOR WELDING
Introduction
Properties of Metals
Weldment Design Program
Welded Design Considerations
Design of Welded Joints
Selection of Weld Type
Sizing of Steel Welds
Tubular Connections
Aluminum Structures
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 6--TEST METHODS FOR EVALUATING WELDED JOINTS
Introduction
Testing for Strength
Hardness Tests
Bend Tests
Fracture Toughness Testing
Fatigue Testing
Corrosion Testing
Creep and Rupture Testing
Testing of Thermal Spray Applications
Weldability Testing
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 7--RESIDUAL STRESS AND DISTORTION
Introduction
Fundamentals
Nature and Causes of Residual Stress
Effects of Residual Stress
Measurement of Residual Stress
Residual Stress Distribution Patterns
Effects of Specimen Size and Weight
Effects of Welding Sequence
Residual Stress in Welds Made with Different Welding Processes
Weld Distortion
Reducing or Controlling Residual Stress and Distortion
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 8--SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
Introduction
Fundamentals
Welding Symbols
Welding Symbols for Specific Weld
Brazing Symbols
Soldering Symbols
Inspection Symbols
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 9--WELDMENT TOOLING AND POSITIONING
Introduction
Fixtures
Positioners
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 10--MONITORING AND CONTROL OF WELDING AND JOINING PROCESSES
Introduction
Principles of Monitoring and Control
Sensing Devices
Process Instrumentation
Process Monitoring Systems
Process Control Systems
Monitoring and Control Systems
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 11--MECHANIZED, AUTOMATED, AND ROBOTIC WELDING
Introduction
Mechanized Welding
Automated Welding
Robotic Welding
Planning for Automated and Robotic Welding
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 12--ECONOMICS OF WELDING AND CUTTING
Introduction
The Cost Estimate
Economics of Welding
Automated and Robotic Systems
Economics of Resistance Spot Welding
Capital Investment in Welding Automation and Robotics
Control of Welding Costs
Economics of Brazing and Soldering
Economics of Thermal Cutting
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 13--WELD QUALITY
Introduction
Defining Weld Quality
Overview of Weld Discontinuities
Discontinuities Associated with Fusion Welding
Discontinuities Associated with Resistance Welding
Discontinuities Associated with the Solid-State Welding Processes
Discontinuities in Brazed and Soldered Joints
Significance of Weld Discontinuities
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 14--WELDING INSPECTION AND NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION
Introduction
Personnel Qualifications
The Inspection Plan
Nondestructive Examination
Metallographic Examination Methods
Inspection of Brazed and Soldered Joints
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 15--QUALIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION
Introduction
Welding and Brazing Procedure Specifications
Qualification of Welding and Brazing Procedures
Performance Qualification
Standardization of Qualification Requirements
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 16--CODES AND OTHER STANDARDS
Introduction
Types of Regulatory Documents
Standards-Developing Organizations and Welding-Related Publications
Guidelines for Participating in International Standards Activities
Conclusion
Supplementary Reading List

CHAPTER 17--SAFE PRACTICES
Introduction
Safety Management
Protection of the Work Area
Personal Protective Equipment
Protection against Fumes and Gases
Safe Handling of Compressed Gases
Protection against Electromagnetic Radiation
Electrical Safety
Fire Prevention
Explosion Prevention
Process-Specific Safety Considerations
Safety in Robotic Operations
Conclusion
Bibliography
Supplementary Reading List

APPENDIX A--TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
APPENDIX B--METRIC PRACTICE GUIDE FOR THE WELDING INDUSTRY

Here is the BOK for the Fundamentals.
PART A: FUNDAMENTALS  (CWI and CWE)
Subject  Percentage
Welding Processes  10%- Chapter 1
Heat Control & Metallurgy (carbon and low-alloy steel)  6% Chapter 2,3,4
Weld Examination  9% Chapter14
Welding Performance  9% Chapter 15
Definitions and Terminology  12% Appendix A
Symbols - Welding and NDE  10% Chapter 8
Test Methods - NDE  8% Chapter 6, 13, 14
Reports and Records  6% Various
Duties and Responsibilities  4%
Safety  5%- Chapter 17
Destructive Tests  4%-Chapter 6
Cutting  3% Chapter 1
Brazing  2% Chapter 1
Soldering  1% Chapter 1

Of course if you can get ALL of the referenced books, then do it. I imagine with the online prep course there is a pretty good amount of material provided. The Welding Handbook is what I suggest as a learning tool more than a prep for a test tool.

If all of your experience is as an operator and not welding related, then it may take a few different methods to soak it all in.  If you already have some core knowledge based upon prior study/interests then it may be no problem and the courses may be all you need. BUT you can never go wrong getting welding books.

Gerald Austin

12/12/2015  UPDATE: 

I did not pass my initial CWI test that I took in December 2014.  Like everyone else in this forum with this experience, I was a little depressed and upset.  I did find that this is not a uncommon experience, the CWI certification is one of the hardest professional certifications out there.  Let me break down the test results that I received in my Dec 2014 try:

Part A: 72%
Part B: 48%
Part C: 58%

Average of 59%

A quote from General Patton said: “I don't measure a man's success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom"  This advice is good, since we only truly fail if we give up.  In spite of my failure, I was more aware of what the exams entailed.  I contacted my the Educator that did the training, Mr. Dave Diaz and was able to hire his services for a one day seminar at Sacramento, CA to work on the Part B and C.  I also revisited the Dreaded Part B on my own by looking up the forums and going over the documentation for the made up part B documentation.  One of the catalyst that made me push harder was the fact that for the first time in 30 years, the Oil workers union decided to go on Strike.  I was out on the picket line for 7 weeks, reevaluating my current job as a refinery operator.  I knew if I wanted to get into the Inspections/NDT career field, I needed to start earning certifications to help me land a job in that department.  I did retake the exam last April in San Francisco, I only opted to do the exam since the week long seminar was still fresh on my mind since I took it last November.  Anyway, long story short my second try succeeded and I finally was able to get my CWI.  Here is the result breakdown for the last exam:

Part A: 75%
Part B: 80%
Part C: 90%

Average of 82%

I would advise to try to get the book early so that you can get the fundamentals out of the way ahead of time.  The same for the code book, if you can start going over the book and have a rough idea where to get the important information, that will help you navigate the book much quicker.  Part B is an entirely different beast.  I heard rumors that the practical exam will be changed, but for what I did I purchased the resin models (they go around $500, but you may get them cheaper second hand at ebay). 

Anyway, thank you for all the help.  Please don't give up gentlemen, it is a worth while certification to pursue.

-------------------------

Hello All,

     I am preparing for CWI API 1104 certification.  I already signed up and was approved to take the test this coming November 22nd.  My background is I am a process operator that works for the refining industry in Northern California.  I have 7 years work experience in this field and I am positioning myself to break in the Inspection's field.  So far in order to prepare I have done the following:

I am taking the 90 hour online pre-seminar classes, I find it very helpful.

I am signed up for the week long seminar From Nov 17 to 21.

A couple of questions for those who have been in my shoes.

From where I reside, the seminar and testing venue is about an hour and ten minutes one way without traffic, should I go ahead and pay to stay around the area while the seminar is occurring, My plan currently is just to stay the night prior to the exam date.  What are your thoughts?

Did any of you take the online pre-seminar class ($750 value) and how did it relate to the actual seminar/testing?

Are there any additional study material/books/websites that you can point me to in order to be able to prepare for the exam.

Thank you in advance gentlemen/ladies.

Gentleman,

I think are all here under the premise of improving things. On any level that is applaudable.
Sharing knowledge. Ideas. Experiences. Wisdoms and maybe some truths. Building a stronger community. A safer community.

Somethings are yes and no. Some are just easier yes or no. People like you and me, we decide the difference.

I've discovered people learn better with you than for you, and learning something is a step up. Some life's stairs have a lot of steps. Some grades steeper than others, and hopefully the platforms when you reach one finds a person a degree of rest.

But a thirst is a thirst. I like you offer up a drink of water.

It was tasty.

EDITed Addition-

When my fridge crapped out I looked at the mildly warm and unfrozen meat in the freezer of the fridge I had to ask the question, do I start cooking?
I didn't. I threw it all out. Didn't need a CWI or complicated code to give me a reason. When in doubt throw it out worked over stomach cramps and serious trots.

E6010,E8010, E10010 electrodes.  Coating is cellulose on all rods.  All rods then will be commonly effected by a reduction in moisture coating levels with this binery important point.

While the effects on materials having a greater degree of alloying elements is of mention in the study and this conversation, what is being distorted over in cloud is the effects to useage.
I asked some questions of the group in general of cellulosic coated electrode and the handling chain. That response has been surprisingly quiet.

This thread however shows a degree of activity. I'm hoping all welders, especially those learning will listen. They'll get it. Learn in spite of us.  And when they realize they shouldered alot of blame, guilt, shame and expense for their perceived failing in getting it, ask the question why?

Funny how one moment changes every moment after it.

Now Toey... Don't you think that it would have been so much easier to answer your question or at the very least - steer you in the right direction if you wrote your original post with the question you have in this post???

So you mean to tell us  that after all of the information that was posted in this thread regarding consumable inserts that you cannot answer this question on your own???
Are you preparing for the CWISP exam? which level? Why am I asking this???

Because if you took the time to do the research in order to learn enough about consumable inserts to be able to answer this question then you wouldn't need to ask us for the answer... And this is why I'm NOT going to give you the answer! why? Because if you really want to find out the answer then look for it in the information that's already posted in this thread... Think about it man! A question such as this one is simple enough to remember and answer if you take the time to study more on the topic with the information already found in this thread Toey... So go dig it out of the pile of knowledge found within this thread... That's as close as I'm going to get to help you find the answer...

Why? Because you won't really learn anything if any of us just gives you the answer without you exploring the topic enough to understand why the answer to the question is either A, B, C, or D... Learn it Toey!

Respectfully,
Henry

Thank you for the kind words Brent.
About a year ago my employer had 3 audits scheduled simultaneously We had Nadcap, AS9001, and  DCMA contract auditors in our shop all in the same week, it was interesting to say the least. I am listed by default in our QAM, "the on site CWI is recognized as the welding cognizant and certifying agent for all welding related activity". The Nacap audit, I was prepared for and it was the 1st Nacap audit that our company ever had with zero findings. The DVN coming in for an AS9001 audit caught me by surprise because engineering scheduled without consulting me. I knew that one of our Mil-Primes was coming to audit a new product launch, what I didn't know that because of other events on the Primes side that they would have DCMA with them and be coming in a week early. Pulling off that that challenge gave me the confidence to believe that I can pull off the 3 code endorsement exams with some extra studying and a lot of extra prayers,

Brent, I enjoy reading your posts, I was hoping you would see this and respond. Thanks!

I can't seem to get a grasp on the AISC code as well as I did with D1.1. I have yet to find the rhyme and reason to it. The IBC 2012 seems pretty straight forward to me, almost common sensical. I guess I'm more concerned with the code portion than the plan reading. (Sort of the opposite of the CWI, lol)

I may take the online prep course that ICC offers. I'm not sure that I can formulate a study plan for the AISC manual on my own.

Anyway, thanks for shedding some light on it.

~Josh

Since you are an "almost first time poster" (two whole posts) I will give you an ALMOST FIRST TIME WELCOME TO THE AWS FORUM!! 

Interesting question.  As a code of ethics is involved in all aspects of the various certifications we get (ASNT, AWS, ICC, City of LA, etc, etc) I should mention one must be very careful how these types of questions are answered.  Can't get too specific.

Now, The Code portion of the exam will take you through both RCSC as well as material in Section 16 about bolting which is under several categories.  BUT, it also takes you into IBC 2012.  I believe you have a choice of 2009 or 2012 when you sign up.  Take the 2012, it is the one under consideration, amending, and adopting by most municipalities at the moment.  The Building Authorities use a six year advancement but by the time it comes out, gets all the amendments, and changes for city, county, and state regulations worked into it and is accepted for use it is about 3 years behind the published date. 

There are several changes in Section 17 on Special Inspections as they apply to bolting.  Same with the AISC Construction Manual, make sure you have the newest one as it has changed some in the RCSC. 

Multi story.  An interesting set of plans to say the least.  Mainly watch for things that will bounce you from schedule to schedule so you are constantly going to another sheet several times to answer one question.  Notes, schedules, and details.  Watch them closely. 

No use rating the exam.  It does it's job, weeding out uneducated wanna bees.  If you have the experience and study beforehand you'll do fine.  Some will find it easy, some difficult, some think it is just a money grabber that you automatically pass the second time.  Wrong.  But then, I and my son passed the first time so who am I to say.  We both passed the CWI exam the first time, AWS Bolting Endorsement the first time, and I took the LA City exam and passed the first time.  Does that mean they were easy?  NO!  Does that mean I am better/smarter or just a good test taker?  NO!  I believe in lots of study and get serious about what you are doing.  It isn't a picnic, play with the relatives, go sight seeing opportunity.  It is a serious test.  Treat it as such and you will do fine. 

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

After reading many responses and questions on here about the Level III Basic and the UT Level III I have came to the conclusion:

1. As of right now seems to be no knowledge of Phased Array on UT Method exam.

2. I have all the recommended study materials from ASNT, to include SNT-TC-1A, CP-189, CP-105, along with borrowed Hellier handouts and a bank of questions and answers of various methods.

3. Looks like a lot of this is repeat of CWI study with more depth into other NDE methods with less welding knowledge.

4. I see some people say to have knowledge of CP-105, but I don't see why I need to know this as it is just an outline of various methods.  Why would I need to know that section 1.0 of Computed Tomography Testing is about Advanced Theoretical Background or section 1.1.3.1 is Voltage Spark for Leak Testing Methods Course.  I mean what type of questions would be asked of CP-105?

Any advice is always helpful for the future.  Thanks.

Well I'll try. I know it has little to do with the question asked but does address some problems with some certifications offered. PAUT on ASNT NDT Level III exams, I don't even know what that is (yeah right). You can even add the CWI exams if you want since I have reviewed some of the comments concerning the knowledge some of the inspectors holding the AWS CWI certifications. If you study enough material and have a good retention rate you can take most of the tests and not be able to interpret the results of the examination you are being Certified to do.

I know all the organizations doing our types of certifications have a prerequisite for so many years of training and/or hands on experience but as I said several years ago when questioning ASNT about a radiographic interpretation certification I was told that they didn't have any film or representations of film for the RT Level III exam. When I asked about the UT Level III exam and representations of come screen shots I got the same answer, no screen shots on the UT Level III exam.

What I'm saying is if you go to the training programs, study hard, know the math, and misrepresent some years of experience you can probably pass any one of the exams, AWS, ASNT, and even NACE corrosion inspector. So why worry about this or that being on an ASNT test. Study for it like it is and if it's not on the test you're ahead of the game. It's sometimes referred to as personal development. Who knows, you might need that knowledge on the next job.

By the way, back in '76 there weren't all these prep courses for taking these certification tests. If you're employer didn't teach it or you didn't do a little study on your own (personal development) you didn't get it. I participated in the first CWI testing in '76 then took all three sections of the test over again in '85 after the test was supposedly refined. I don't remember any prep courses back then.

Probably still haven't cleared anything up. Seems like a lot of these posts get off the subject anyway. All these certification programs are revenue generators anyway.

I agree 100% that there are people with years of experience that may fail the test, maybe they are bad "test" takers or a portion they were not prepared for. And there are lot of people that aren't CWI's that probably have way more experience than 10 CWI's put together. But I am talking someone with less than 6 months welding experience simply taking it over and over. Thats why I feel there should be a "waiting" period for more experience or studying if you fail it the first time and possibly with the exception if you failed by less than a certain portion ie: if you failed by one question, yes you should be able to take it again right away but if you fail with only getting 40% do you think that person is ready?

"What I would like to hear is what would make the program stronger."

AMEN!!  There is always room for improvement and this program is no exception.  Especially when it comes to additional educational opportunities after the original certification.

I was very blessed with the man who came to me after I achieved the CWI certification and asked if I wanted to do more than just my own in house QC.  He was a mentor that really rounded out much, not all, of what I needed to carry on as a TPI after CWI certification.  And, every job is different.  You have to get into your job specs and see what the engineer has called out and expects of you. 

One part of the problem is that no one wants to be a student and get paid less while 'apprenticing'.  They want the full pay right now.  'I'm a CWI, I don't need you to tell me how to do my job!'  Yeah, right.

Another part of the problem, getting enough money from the job to be able to pay an apprentice any type of wage while paying the mentor to do his job and teach too.  Some jobs are large enough and if multiple people are needed on site then you can work in a newbie.  But there aren't near enough of those right now. 

I was glad I added the Bolting Endorsement and more recently, should have done it sooner, the ICC Welding and Bolting Certs.  The background I gained in self study preparing for those and the documentation they provide that I have experience and knowledge of Bolting and Print Reading has been a real asset.  Endorsements help add some of this knowledge we are concerned about.

Example:  It has come up many times on this forum as well as on jobs- restricting cleaning to a wire brush and hand held manual chipping hammer.  If one gets into other codes and spends time around here they find out that codes have different requirements/restrictions.  And that particular one does not cross the line to be applicable to D1.1.  We would not have to keep doing that discussion with every batch of new CWI's if they had more training in other codes. 

They need to do much more study after passing one code and disregard most of what they thought they knew and make sure everything they do or say is in the code they are currently working to. 

Maybe an idea for another on line class for AWS: Disregarding Preconceived Ideas and Working From Facts.  They could cover many of the conflicts of understanding because people have not realized that much of what they have heard is true, it just comes from a different code and/or application. 

I better stop.  This is becoming a soap box for me.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

It is fine to find fault or to criticize, but what alternative have you to offer.

Employer base certification is not viable since there is no base line established and it is biased.

The marketplace wants a yardstick that can be used to determine if an individual has the basic knowledge required to perform a function. That is the case with folk lift operators, crane operators, electricians, plumbers, welders, inspectors, engineers, doctors, teachers, and lawyers. Few people or corporations have the time, money, or expertise to evaluate every candidate they interview or consider when filling a position. Instead, they depend on independent bodies that are perceived to have the expertise to do part of the task for them. It is still the employer's responsibility to exercise due diligence when assessing the abilities of an employee before assigning him or her to a task. the goal should be to ensure the assignment is within their capability and experience.

I do not expect a family practitioner to perform open-heart surgery. I do not expect a teacher fresh out of college with a license to teach grammar school to instruct a course intended for graduate students working on advanced degrees. I have to recognize the limitations of the credential. The credential alone does not mean the individual has the experience or capability to perform a job function that requires advanced training and experience.

What do you propose in place of the “certification?” What system do you propose that can provide a yardstick that can be used to assess an individual’s knowledge of a subject? Does the employer discount the value of the high school diploma and administer their own examination? Does the employer discount the college degree and make each candidate complete an examination to demonstrate proficiency or mastery of basic sciences, humanities, or subjects of specialization? Does the employer discount the engineer’s license to practice and require each candidate to complete an extensive series of practical engineering problems? Does each client discount the lawyer’s diploma and require the lawyer to pass an examination of their design before allowing that individual to represent your interests in a courtroom? The same argument extends to the doctor’s license and every other profession. How many of us have the expertise required to properly evaluate a prospective professional. Instead, we depend on certifications and licensing to verify the individual has the basic abilities, education, training, and experience needed to perform the job function. 

Evidently, industry does recognize the need and the value of certification and licensing as a means of validating the individual’s knowledge or skill. Industry requires and relies on certification/licensing programs to ensure the individual has a basic understanding of a particular subject. It does not confer “expert” status on the credential holder.

The question really is, “How far does one go and how much money is to be spent to assess the knowledge and capabilities of the individual under consideration?” I agree that the credential should not be the only consideration when hiring someone to provide a service or to fill an employment opening. However, it is a recognized tool that can be utilized to sort out those individual that are unlikely to meet the needs of the employer or the client.

No system is perfect. Every system can be improved upon. I am always in favor of training. Few people taking the CWI examinations are proficient in all subjects. More classroom time and more time spent studying subjects such as welding symbols, metallurgy, mathematics, nondestructive testing, codes, material specifications, etc. would be a benefit. However, the subjects by themselves can be boring to say the least. I find it useful if the subjects can be tied into practical problems that require more than memorization. Learning to use analytical skills and learning how to find information using multiple references, i.e., codes, standards, and specifications are valuable lessons for solving real world problems. The question becomes, "How much time is required?" Some people require more time because the subjects might be new to them. Some people might be proficient in some subjects, but not others. What is a happy medium that would be suitable for the majority of the attendees?  Home study, classroom training, on-the-job experience are all ways to learn. All ways are viable, but classroom training usually accelerates the learning process for most people.

The fact remains that people that have decided to take the CWI examinations have alternatives to consider. They can self study, they can attend the AWS one week review, they can attend a class offered by companies such as Hobart, Real, or others, or they can attend seminars offered by the local sections of AWS (not all sections offer CWI seminars). A one week seminar is hardly the venue for someone that doesn't have experience in welding, NDT, or mechanical testing. Yet, a two week curriculum would cause a person with years of experience to fall asleep in class. It is the individual's responsibility to determine what venue will best meet their needs. The one week CWI seminar is not intended to offer one-on-one tutoring. Few courses offer that type of training. One-on-one training simply is not cost effective. I should point out that a person that needs considerable "hand-holding" probably isn't an ideal candidate for a position as a CWI. There are many situations where the CWI is expected to wok independently. They have to be problem solvers that can use references to find answers to a broad spectrum of questions. They have use formulas to solve math problems and they need to be able to write reports. Basic skills such as those are difficult to teach in a one or two week curriculum. That's where classes completed at the local community college can be beneficial. Taking such courses would be of great benefit if they are completed before attending CWI training.

Finally, is the goal to eliminate the individuals that have not mastered the subject matter, enhance the capabilities of the CWI, or ensure the CWI can fulfill basic job requirements? It there a  problem with the existing program or is there a problem with employers that assign the CWI work that they are not qualified to perform?

Best regards - Al

I think Brent is on the right track regarding the CWI program. There are three levels of certifications. We all know the limitations of the CAWI, but many people seem to overlook the portions of AWS B5.1 that defines the responsibilities of the CWI and the scope of the work that a CWI is expected to fulfill. It seems to me that some people in industry expects the CWI to be an expert in all matters relating to welding. A review of AWS B5.1 should allay that misconception.

Generally speaking, the visual inspector, certified as a CWI, has demonstrated the ability to read and apply welding symbols, work to a standard, assess welds based on that standard, witness welder and procedure qualification, navigate a code, and has a working knowledge of the welding processes, NDT methods, and mechanical testing typically used by industry. the CWI must score a minimum of 72% correct in order to attain certification. That would barely be a score of "C" in most school curriculums. That hardly indicates a mastery of the subject matter.

In the real world, the CWI is often expected to be an expert in all matters related to welding. That is an over reach of what the intent of the CWI credential is intended to be. Individuals, being human, are too quick to accept responsibilities or to assign responsibilities to people that do not have the training or experience to fulfill the scope of the job. When the individual fails to live up to the expectations, it is the system that is derided.

Brent hit the nail on the head with his comment that the CWI should quickly recognizes how limited the depth of his knowledge is. Upon recognizing the limitations, additional training or study is needed to improve their understanding of their job assignments. Many CWIs that do not already have training and certification in other NDE methods do so once they obtain their CWI credential. They attend courses at their local community college, they attend seminars offered by AWS and other professional organizations, they become members of professional organizations such as ASM, AISC, ASQ, ASME, etc. They are afforded the opportunity to expand their knowledge of welding and related subjects. The competent CWI recognizes that on-going learning is key to long term success. It isn't enough to maintain the status quo. It is for that very reason I support the concept of endorsements and continuing education as the preferred method of maintaining the CWI credential. I see little benefit to taking the Part B examination every nine years. 

The CWI should not be viewed as the pinnacle of success, but rather the foundation upon which a solid successful career can be built with further education, training, and certification.

As for the existing system of qualifying and certifying the CWI, the examine does what it is intended to do. The exam questions ensure the individual has a level of mastery of the English language which is reasonable considering the CWI must work with codes, standards, and specifications. It ensures the candidate has a working knowledge of a broad spectrum of subjects relating to the visual examination of welds. It ensures the candidate has a basic understanding of how to use typical gages used to measure weld attributes. And it requires the candidate to demonstrate the ability navigate and apply the provisions of a welding standard. It requires the candidate to demonstrate basic abilities related to the visual examination of welds.

Like any system of accreditation the CWI program isn't perfect. CWIs do make mistakes just as licensed engineers make mistakes and doctors make mistakes that are buried everyday. The human element is something that can't be overlooked. Any accreditation system that involves a human element is not going to be perfect.

Best regards - Al

Thanks Kent. But with experience only, it would have taken me years to be able to pass the exam. The study time that I put into it was based upon an interest in welding with no knowledge of the CWI program for most of that time. I do think some way to better confirm related experience would be nice. And maybe that is done now. Maybe someone goes over in detail what is on an application, makes a few calls, and sends the application on down. Or not.

My concern is a "Mandatory Course" would probably lead to a "Mandatory Paid Course" and thus be a burden to those who have dedicated many hours to  self study.

So... I attended the AWS CWS seminar last week, followed by the Saturday exam.
My main purpose for attending was to assess the program and determine is validity as a requirement for the welding Supervisors in our fairly large high production manufacturing facilities. This is because our Supervisors are very good at employing "Lean" concepts in large volumes of quality product out the door, but I know we are leaving a lot of money on the table due to overwelding in both design and practice, as well as under utilization of high deposition procedures.
All in all, the CWS program is mainly designed to help with just what I described above, but as far as the programs validity to fit our needs, I can only give it a 5 out of 10 score, in it's current format.

Pros -
     -Exposure to the concepts of the "Total Welding Management" philosophy was enlightening.
     -I appreciated the break down of GMAW Spray transfer into two categories, "Spray" and "Dip Spray" as they are considerably different and I had never had this explained     in this manner.
     -The detail in which the mathematical process and formulae for determining weld volumes, deposition rates, arc time vs non arc time and operational efficiency factors was   extremely useful.
     -I can see where the information put forth about variances in basic processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, MCAW, GTAW, OFC, CAC, PT, MT, UT, RT) would be useful to those    not already familiar with them, as far as process selection is concerned.
     -Information about welding symbology and the importance of good production reporting.
     -The seminar instructor was knowledgeable, professional, respectable.
     -Networking and learning from other professionals in the field (Seminar Attendees) is always good.

Cons -
     -The entire first day of the seminar detailed the Barckhoff "Total Welding Management" system, which was educational to me, but considering the fact that this information   is not included in the CWS "Body of Knowledge", proscribed self study materials or in the certification exam, it felt like more of a Barckhoff Welding Management sales pitch rather than an AWS CWS component.
     -The second half of the last seminar day, which I feel would have been better spent on review / Q&A, was instead a definite high pressure sales pitch from Jack Barckhoff.
     -The only materials from the CWS detaied self study materials that were covered in the seminar was the Certification Manual for Welding Supervisors - CMWS:2005, which    was compressed to make time for the Barckhoff sales pitches.
     -There was no seminar review of the other detailed self study materials, especially the "Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes" - ANSI Z49.1:2005, and "Economics of Welding and Cutting" - ARE-12, which was disapointing as there were pertinent exam questions from these materials.
     -There was no information delivered either in the study materials or the seminar, concerning topics I see as key to the role of a Welding Supervisor, such as control of parts  flow, materials traceability, weld mapping, process tips and techniques toward the prevention of weld defects, auditing, Quality Systems and Registrars, report formatting, employee hiring / firing / training / mentoring techniques, rework / finishing techniques, drawings / prints interpretation and troubleshooting, stacked tolerances, dealing with management functionaries who have little to no welding fabrication knowledge, etc.
     -There is no mention in the entire CWS system of GMAW-Pulse welding, with the exception of a few extra power point slides the instructor threw in for good measure.
     -The Certification Manual for Welding Supervisors is a reflection of pre 1980's technology, with no inclusion of robotics, lasers or other advanced processes, and is rife with errors.
     -The entire program is carbon steel based with very little to no mention of other materials.
     -There was a contradiction in the technique for formulating fillet weld volumes between that in the Certification manual as detailed by the Instructor and in the proscribed    self study material "Economics of Welding and Cutting" in which the latter included allowances for convexity and the former did not. On the exam, there was an example given for a large fillet welding job in which several questions were chained too. I answered the questions based on the formulas explained in the seminar. If AWS chooses to include convexity in determining the correct exam answers, and I have failed the exam as a result, I'm going to be one pissed off individual.
     - The exam was not very challenging.
     -There was no seminar or Certification Manual information for determining total weld costs including contributing factors such as gasses, utilities, equipment, consumables,   finishing, rework. There were mentions of these factors in the "Economics of Welding and Cutting" self study material, which again, was not reviewed in the seminar.

So, in conclusion, typing this out has helped me make up my mind that I need to explore other alternatives toward enhancing our Supervisory training and develop my own certification program.

AWS, if you're listening, your CWS program is a highly valuable concept that will greatly benefit the industry, however, it is in dire need of an overhaul.

Tim Gary
AWS SCWI

Your article on “Protected Zones” is an excellent article Brent! It was well written and makes one appreciate some of the factors that must be considered with those types of connections. You did an excellent job introducing us to an important subject for those of us that deal with designs and fabrication in seismic active areas. I expect to see the applications for AWS D1.8 expanding into other areas where connections can expect to see load excursions beyond the elastic limit.

Your article makes a very important point that it is the  CWI’s responsibility to study the applicable code and research the subject matter to fully appreciate and understands the implications of the requirements. The CWI credential is the entry level of certification for the inspector. The CWI credential does not mean the individual has mastered all the subject matter that the inspector needs to know. The CWI’s education must be on going.

I chuckle when I see someone that has passed their CWI examinations and then offers their books “for sale” with the assumption they will not need to refer to them in the future. My initial thought is, “Another short lived career. I hope he kept his welding helmet.”

The subject of "plastic hinge" can be your next article. I know many inspectors do not understand the differences between designs that incorporate stresses well below the elastic limit, i.e., allowable stress designs, and those that anticipate maximum loads that can exceed the elastic limit. A connection that is designed to yield and deform as a means to absorb and dissipate energy responds much differently to the influence of a discontinuity than a connection designed to operate within the elastic range.

Good job my friend.

Best regards – Al

Bill,

I would not recommend all the code books published by AWS.

But, all that in any way apply to your area of business. For example, if involved in D1.1 you will probably also need D1.3, D1.4, D1.8, AISC Construction Manual and Seismic Design Manuals, IBC-2012, ASTM Selected Standards, (back to AWS) specifications covering electrodes, etc.

Then, I personally like the Welding Handbook series (full sized books, we are not talking about the little reference guides) on welding processes, science and technology, etc.  All the books listed on the website for self study for the CWI exams:
AWS Publications                                                                   Order Number
Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors                                       CM: 2000
Welding Inspection Handbook                                                         WI: 2000
* D1.1/D1.1M Structural Welding Code-Steel                                     D1.1/D1.1M: 2010
* D1.1 Code Clinic Reference Manual                                              D1.1CCRM: 2010
* API 1104 Study Guide for API Standard 1104 Welding of Pipelines      API-M: 2008
* Welding Inspection Technology                                                      WIT-T-2008
* Welding Inspection Technology (Workbook)                                     WIT-W: 2008
* Welding Inspection Technology Sample CWI Fundamentals Examination & Key  WIT-E: 2008
* Standard Welding Terms and Definitions                                    A3.0M/A3.0:2010
* Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination  A2.4: 2012
* Visual Inspection Workshop Reference Manual                               VIW-M: 2008
* Guide for the Nondestructive Examination of Welds                     B1.10M/B1.10:2009
Book of Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors (errata 2007)  B5.1: 2003

Do you NEED all these? NO!  But, you asked about personal opinion for a library for reference material.  If cost is not a major consideration, I highly recommend each of these books.  Many will be needed for your work and the others are excellent learning and reference materials.

He Is In Control, Have a Great Day,  Brent

I will be arriving in the U.S next year, what will be the best way for me in order of events?

1. Join AWS
2. Buy the CWI books
3. Study the books
4. Attend seminar
5. Write the exam

I think my biggest difficulty will probably be the change from metric to imperial, when it comes to groove sizes.

What do you guys think?