American Welding Society St Louis Section 17

03/16/2026

02/24/2026

02/21/2026

CENTRALIA, IL — Kaskaskia College is proud to recognize Cory Wellen, Associate Professor of Welding Technology, on being named the recipient of the American Welding Society (AWS) St. Louis Section Educator Award.
The award honors outstanding welding educators who demonstrate excellence in instruction and a strong commitment to preparing students for successful careers in the welding industry. Wellen was selected in recognition of his dedication to hands-on learning, industry-aligned training, and student success.
“I’m honored to receive the AWS award,” Wellen said. “To me, welding education is more than just learning the skills, it’s about helping students build careers they can be proud of. I am a big believer in hands-on training that matches what students will see on the job, and I am grateful for the students and their enthusiasm for this trade, which keep me motivated every day in the classroom and the lab.”
As an Associate Professor of Welding Technology, Wellen plays a key role in preparing students with the technical skills and real-world experience needed to enter today’s workforce. His instruction emphasizes safety, precision, and practical application, ensuring graduates are well equipped to meet industry demands.
“Cory Wellen is an instructor who truly makes an impact on students and our industry partners.” said Joy Fitts, Dean of Workforce Engagement at Kaskaskia College. “He brings so much passion to welding education, providing hands-on, real-world skills, and is genuinely committed to helping students succeed. Cory’s recognition from the American Welding Society is well deserved, and we are proud to have him on the workforce education team at Kaskaskia College.”
The American Welding Society St. Louis Section Educator Award highlights Wellen’s contributions to welding education and underscores Kaskaskia College’s commitment to high-quality workforce and technical training.
For more information about Kaskaskia College’s Welding Technology program, visit kaskaskia.edu.

02/20/2026

We had an incredible turnout at the American Welding Society – St. Louis Section event! 🙌

A big thank you to David Viar for leading an outstanding session on Building a Pre-WPS (AWS D1.1). The room was packed with professionals eager to sharpen their knowledge and elevate their welding standards. It’s inspiring to see so many dedicated welders, inspectors, and industry leaders come together to grow, learn, and strengthen our trade. This is what the welding community is all about — education, collaboration, and continuous improvement.👏 Thank you to everyone who showed up and made it such a success.
We’re proud to be part of a community that truly invests in excellence.

02/19/2026

We decided to take a trip over to American Welding Academy High School Senior Welding Competition back on the 7th of February and what a turn out! 200 high school welders competing😱
Also, Huge congratulations to Caleb Grissom on 4th place in the competition and on the $1000 scholarship from American Welding Society! Keep up the great work! 🤩👍🏼

09/08/2025

06/16/2025