Clearly seeing an advantage of obtaining a certification as a welding inspector, Michael Pawelczyk of Steubenville, Ohio, took two weeks away from his job this past summer and privately funded his tuition and fees to attend the Preparation for the American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector/Educator Examination course and completed the examination at the Hobart Institute using the American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 standard. 

“The course has provided me with a better understanding of the entire welding process including the various metals,” says Michael.  “It helps to see all of the steps that make a welded product complete, from the raw materials through the final inspection.”

“Michael is a quick learner and a sharp student,” says Elmer Swank, HIWT instructor.  “He didn’t have any problem picking up the advanced material provided in the CWI class.” 

Since completing the nine-month Combination Structural and Pipe Welding Program at HIWT in 2001, Michael has been employed with the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 495 in Cambridge, Ohio.  He qualified for a two-year credit toward his apprenticeship because of his HIWT education and has since completed the remaining three-year apprenticeship with the union.  Most recently, Michael has been employed by Cryogenic Construction, Inc. where he utilizes a wide variety of materials and processes to fabricate skid piping for oxygen systems. 

“This AWS-CWI certification will make me more employable in the future,” Michael comments.  “I will not only be able to use my welding skills to benefit the union, but I will also be able to serve when contracts call for a certified welding inspector.  It will also provide job variety so that I don’t always have to be under the hood.”

Michael began welding in high school at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School and continued on be a scholarship winner at Hobart Institute.  His ambition of holding three jobs while attending high school has carried through to his welding career and provided him with an outstanding work ethic.  He seizes every opportunity for continuing education and certification that enhance his ability and provide an advantage in the workplace.