American Welding Laboratories

American Welding Laboratories Fort Smith’s Premier Welding Academy

Another successful group of graduates from our night class! 🔥 🧑‍🏭

We are proud to recognize these 3 graduates for putting in the hard work, long nights, and dedication it takes to complete welding training while balancing life and responsibilities outside the classroom. Even more impressive, 2 of the 3 graduates secured employment with a local welding company immediately after graduation.

This is exactly why employment outcomes matter when choosing a post-secondary school. At AWL, we don’t just focus on completing training, we focus on preparing students for real careers in the welding industry.

The demand for skilled welders continues to be strong, and our students’ success is a direct reflection of the hands-on training, industry connections, and real world experience they receive at AWL. While many post-secondary programs struggle with graduate placement, our students are consistently entering the workforce quickly, and often before they even finish training.

Congratulations to these graduates on taking the next step in their welding careers.

Congratulations to our newest AWL graduates!

We're proud to recognize this class for reaching an important milestone and taking the next step toward successful careers in the welding industry.

Even more impressive, 3 out of 5 graduates secured welding jobs before completing the program, demonstrating the value of hard work, determination, and being proactive in pursuing career opportunities.

The remaining 2 graduates aren't finished yet, they've chosen to continue their education at AWL by enrolling in another welding program to further expand their skills and certifications. Their commitment to continuous learning will only create even more opportunities in the future.

Whether entering the workforce immediately or continuing to build their skillset, each of these students has a bright future ahead. We are honored to have been part of their journey and can't wait to see what they accomplish next. 👏🏻

At AWL, we often talk about grit, determination, and perseverance, but some stories remind us what those words truly mean.

As Jacq Clayton nears completion of her welding training, we’re proud to congratulate her on already securing a great welding opportunity in Missouri. This little structural welder will be starting out at $28 per hour & $135 a day per diem, all before graduation. Earning employment before finishing the program is an achievement in itself, but her journey makes it even more meaningful.

Just a few months ago, she experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother in a sudden and tragic accident. He was a welder, and in the midst of unimaginable grief, she made the decision to pursue welding as a way to honor his memory and continue a legacy that meant so much to him.

Rather than allowing tragedy to define her future, she turned her pain into purpose. She showed up, put in the work, pushed through difficult days, and stayed committed to her goals.

Her story is a powerful reminder that strength isn’t the absence of hardship, it’s having the courage to keep moving forward despite it.

Congratulations, Jacq. We are incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished and excited to see what the future holds for you. Your brother would undoubtedly be proud as well. ♥️

Big congratulations to two of our recent AWL students for taking initiative and making things happen! 👏🔥

Emalea Mullins secured a welding job immediately after graduation and has been killing it out there, while James Moore was hired BEFORE even finishing the program. That says a lot not only about the demand for skilled welders, but also about the work ethic and determination these students showed throughout their training.

We are especially proud of how proactive they were in seeking out employment opportunities, introducing themselves to employers, and putting themselves out there. That kind of drive and ambition is exactly what helps students stand out in the welding industry.

Congratulations to both of you, we can’t wait to see where all your careers take you! 💪⚡

🎉Join us in congratulating our April students of the month, Hunter Francis and Isaac ONeal. 🎉

‼️ Attention AWL Alumni! ‼️

Be sure to check the AWL Alumni Group page for current job postings. We’ve recently had several companies contact us looking to hire 10+ welders.

The AWL Alumni Group is exclusively for former AWL students. If you’d like access to the job opportunities being posted and are not a current member, simply request to join the group for approval.