RE:  AWS - CWI EXAMINATION

I PASSED!!!!!

Since the moment that I turned in the last section of the test, I have nervously awaited the results. With the company paying for my test, class, wages, expenses, etc. the thought of failing was uncomfortable, to say the least!

I became a member of the U.A. in 1984 and have been a certified welder, superintendent, quality manger, etc. ever since.  I have attended ASME Sec. VIII & IX, NBIC, various ISPE training, various specialized training, QA/QC courses, and am level II certified in visual and liquid penetrant examinations. I had been told that the test was pretty difficult, but I felt fairly well prepared.

I was wrong. Thankfully the program that Hobart has established not only emphasized the difficulty of the test, but encouraged us to focus on the task at hand with classroom testing and evening work. I spent 2-3 hours each evening reading, studying, filling out homework assignments, etc.  This is more time than I have ever spent on any other class. In fact, that is more studying than I did in college - maybe that is why I am a pipefitter! It became apparent very quickly to me that I had a lot to learn if I was going to pass the tests. Even with all the studying and preparing I was still nervous about the outcome.

I do not believe that I could have passed this test without your class and it is very apparent to me, by looking at my scores, that your class is very well focused and the content is well planned and effective.

We currently have 5 CWI's working for us and are planning to increase this number. I am the second person to take your course and succeed on the initial test. The Corporate Quality Manager and I are in agreement that any future inspector that we send to obtain their CWI certification will be sent to your preparatory class before taking the test. Not only have you proven the value of your class, but I believe that by having a well rounded curriculum rather than completely test-focused, the class will produce better, more knowledgeable inspectors.

The classes, with Elmer Swank, Chuck Ford and Nelson Morales as instructors, were engaging and not boring lectures, as so many times classes like this are. Your knowledge of the subject matter is impressive.  Thank you for your class and classroom style. Most of all thank you for helping me become a CWI.BMW Constructors believes that the best workforce is a well-trained one.  At the HIWT, we get the best training and we are proud of that association

David A. Gillespie
Resident Quality Manager
BMW Constructors, Inc.

I recently graduated from HIWT, Class of 2004.  Your magazines really help me out.  I like your articles about people who have attended HIWT previously and are doing great in their profession.  Recently, I have been hired by Liebherr Mining Equipment Co. and my work experience is awesome.  Actually, it is getting better every day.  Good work, Hobart!  Thank you!                                           

~ Adam Blackmore, Virginia

Please continue to send The World of Welding.  I get so much from each issue and enjoy it very much!  I save every issue.  Keep it coming.  Thanks!                                                                      

 ~ Mike Dever, Ohio