New certification programs

The concept of a Senior Welding Inspector or three levels of certification for welding inspectors is not new in the European community. Recently, a Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) or third level of certification has been made available in the United States as well. Central or Independent/3rd party certification of NDE personnel which could be considered as a "portable certification" is also new to the United States and has received much deliberation and appears as though it will continue to over the coming years. However, again this concept and program like the Senior Welding Inspector has been in existence for many years in the UK. This paper will provide a brief background and overview of the European CSWIP programs and the new certification programs in the US. The paper represents only the authors interpretations and opinions of these programs and not those of any other organization or society. Should the reader desire specific information on either of these available certifications, The American Welding Society Certification Department can and should be contacted directly.