8 Certifications
For students preparing for a welding career in Washington State, understanding the difference between WABO and AWS certifications is essential. Both credentials are valuable, but they serve different purposes and are recognized in different contexts.
WABO stands for the Washington Association of Building Officials. WABO certification is designed specifically for structural welding work regulated by Washington State building codes. It is a highly controlled and verified process: testing is only conducted at WABO-accredited facilities by certified WABO examiners. Welders who pass receive a plastic WABO card, similar to a credit card, which lists their qualifications. This card is renewable annually and includes a strict continuity requirement, meaning welders must submit verification that they have used their certified skills regularly.
Because WABO is Washington-specific, it is often required for public infrastructure projects such as bridges and buildings within the state. Employers and inspectors can verify WABO credentials quickly, adding a layer of accountability and trust.
AWS, or the American Welding Society, offers a broader, nationally recognized certification system. AWS credentials, especially when earned through an Accredited Test Facility (ATF), are accepted across the U.S. and internationally. AWS certification is more flexible but may lack the centralized tracking that WABO offers unless taken through an ATF.
Which should you get? If you plan to work in Washington’s construction industry, especially on public or structural projects, WABO is a must. If you want to travel or work out of state, AWS provides wider access. Many professional welders earn both.
Ultimately, your goal should be to build the skills needed to pass either test—and be ready to retest with each new employer, since most require their own in-house exams.
