Consumables Corner: Roadmap to success for a welding supervisor

Q: In one of your previous columns, you discussed the relationships between deposition rates, efficiencies, and output. It seems there is a lot of value in understanding these topics in greater detail and how they could benefit weld manufacturing operations. Is there a book or course you could recommend that covers those topics?

A: Yes, there are several publications or degrees you could pursue to achieve the depth of knowledge you are seeking. However, most working individuals don't have the time or resources to attend a college or university for an advanced degree.

There is a certification available that specifically covers the topics you listed—and even more—and is highly accessible and streamlined towards industry folks.

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS) certification addresses topics like basic metallurgy, quality inspection, understanding welding and cutting processes, weld estimating, welding efficiencies, health and safety, and even reporting.

This certification should be required by any company for its welding supervisors, team leads, plant managers, and even their job estimators. It helps these folks understand their effective role in managing a welding crew. Supervisors often get caught up in other activities that are not focused on leading the team—tasks such as chasing parts, sitting in production meetings (where they have no input), ordering supplies, or other things that do not specifically focus on optimizing production throughput.

AWS usually offers a weeklong seminar to help individuals prepare for the examination, and it’s a great way to brush up on your algebra and geometry skills if they’re a bit rusty or lacking.

AWS also offers the book "Certified Welding Supervisor Manual for Quality and Productivity Improvement" for exam preparation. At the end of each chapter, there is a practice quiz to help you practice for the exam.

And beyond prepping for the exam, this book serves as a great resource for any weld manufacturing operation that wants to become more efficient and improve quality.