Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Leveling Up in 2026 – Where do I start and How AWS Can Help? Feat. Dr. Josh Burgess

In the first Weld Wednesdays with AWS episode of 2026, I'm sitting down with Dr. Josh Burgess, current President of the American Welding Society and Senior Program Manager for Metallurgical and Welding Engineering at the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Dr. Burgess shares his path from welding in high school and competing at the national level to earning his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in materials science and engineering. Along the way, AWS played a pivotal role—providing scholarships, networking opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development that shaped his career.

This conversation covers:

• How AWS membership opens doors at every career stage

• The value of section involvement and industry networking

• Leadership development through volunteering

• Welding metallurgy, inspection, and failure analysis

• Workforce development and future career paths in welding

• Emerging technology like additive manufacturing and automation

Whether you're a student, working welder, inspector, educator, or industry leader, this episode highlights why welding remains one of the most versatile and opportunity-rich trades available today.

For more on how you can get involved with the AWS Click Here