American Welding Society Releases Television Commercials To Promote Welding Careers

MIAMI -- January 10, 2003 --

According to industry studies collected by the American Welding Society (AWS), lack of vocational/technical training could be contributing to the nation's current high unemployment figures. To address the need for qualified welding fabrication professionals, AWS is releasing two (2) television commercials nationwide, in hopes of appealing to men and women who may be searching for an alternative career. The commercials highlight career options available within the welding industry, as well as the vital impact welding has on our lives.

"The challenge our industry faces is very serious. If we can't expand public awareness of the vital role that welding plays in our total economy ­ and the outstanding career opportunities offered by the welding industry ­ we'll see more welding fabrication jobs leave the U.S.A., not because of labor costs, but because enough trained welding people are simply not available," stated Rusty Franklin, chairman of the AWS Image of Welding task group.

View and download the commercials at the AWS website, www.aws.org.