Spotlight on Welding Supervisors

Guardians of quality and safety

Standards related to welding and construction are critical for ensuring public safety and supporting a strong and competitive industry. In fact, standards are the blueprint for safety and success, and the foundation for welding excellence.

For companies certified to CSA Standards such as CSA W47.1, CSA W47.2, and CSA W186, there’s one key role that's crucial to their operation – the Welding Supervisor.

A Welding Supervisor is entrusted with upholding the highest standards of quality and safety in welding operations. For large companies working around the clock, a qualified Welding Supervisor is typically required for each shift. And when it comes to on-site construction, their presence is indispensable.

“Stepping into the role of Welding Supervisor has been a game-changer for my career and my sense of purpose,” said Jacob Walker, a Welding Supervisor working in the Calgary area, who completed his certification journey in 2023.

“It's not just about the title or the added responsibilities – it’s about being recognized as a leader in my field, someone who ensures that quality and safety are non-negotiables,” said Jacob (name changed for privacy).

There are approximately 7,760 CWB-certified Welding Supervisors in Canada (as of April 2024), with a median salary of $73,000 (2016 Census data, Statistics Canada).

Becoming a Welding Supervisor means having at least five years of relevant experience and passing shop-floor relevant exams administered by the CWB, including those on weld symbols, quality control, inspection, and recognizing weld discontinuities.

Once qualified, a Welding Supervisor ensures that all welding personnel are qualified with the correct welding processes and in the correct welding positions, and are working with approved welding procedures in the shop and in the field. Their role often extends to on-the-job training, especially for new welders, emphasizing safety and the specific welding operations of the company. Welding Supervisors must also be adept at preparing test samples for qualification tests, to ensure the team can interpret welding procedure data sheets accurately, and ensuring that visual weld quality meets the requirements of both customers and relevant standards.

Welding Supervisors collaborate with Welding Engineers to develop and qualify Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDSs). This is a critical task that helps to ensure compliance with CSA Standards.

“Every day, I see firsthand how my vigilance and attention to detail translate into safer work environments, stronger welds, and better outcomes for the industry,” said Jacob. “My decision to pursue approval as a Welding Supervisor has empowered me to be a leader, a mentor, and a champion of welding excellence.”

To take the first step towards becoming a certified Welding Supervisor, visit cwbgroup.org and explore the courses available. When you’re ready to take the exams, make sure you’re prepared. Study diligently and ensure you're familiar with weld symbols, quality control, weld faults, and the code itself.

CWB offers multiple options for writing exams: in-person, after the classroom course is complete, online via a proctor, in-person written exams, or in-person verbal exams, which are available at your workplace. For exam registration, call 1-800-844-6790.

Learn more at cwbgroup.org.