How Does SENSE Work?

SENSE programming is modular in format, with instructors and administrators determining the best method/s to review the content with their students. After Key Indicators for a module have been reviewed, instructors administer the AWS-developed multiple-choice test* and (as applicable) a performance evaluation in the process(es) (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, or FCAW) they are covering.

SENSE Level

Level I

Level II

Programming Direction

Geared toward the Entry Level Welder. Students can earn up to 4 certificates of completion; one for each process they complete.

The topics covered include:

  • Safety & Health of Welders
  • Drawing & Welding Symbol Interpretation
  • Thermal Cutting Processes: OFC, PAC, CAC-A, & Mechanized OFC
  • Welding Processes: SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, & GTAW

Geared toward the Advanced Level Welder. Students can earn up to 10 certificates of completion; one for each process.

The topics covered include:

  • Trade Math
  • Welding Metallurgy
  • Welding Inspection & Testing Methods
  • Documents Governing Welding & Welding Inspection
  • Thermal Cutting Processes
  • Plate Welding Processes: SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, & GTAW
  • Pipe Welding Processes: SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, & GTAW
  • Welding Fabrication

Standard for SENSE Educational Programming

QC10: Specification for Qualification and Certification of SENSE Level I – Entry Welders

QC11: Specification for Qualification and Certification of SENSE Level II – Advanced Welders

Standard for SENSE Instructors

EG2.0: Guide for the Training of Welding Personnel: SENSE Level I – Entry Welders.

EG3.0: Guide for Training of Welding Personnel: SENSE Level II – Advanced Welders.

Standard for SENSE Testing Procedures

EG2.0 Supplement: Supplement SENSE Level I – Entry Welder Training Performance Testing Procedures

EG3.0 Supplement: Supplement SENSE Level II – Advanced Welder Training Performance Testing Procedures

*Practical knowledge exams for Level I may be administered via SENSE Online or in paper format. Level II practical knowledge exams are currently available only in paper format.

Students who complete SENSE programming will be listed in the SENSE Training Database for verification of program completion and receive an AWS SENSE Certificate of Completion and wallet card containing their information and the process module/s (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, or FCAW) they completed. The student can access and download these credentials via SENSE Online (Level I only) at any time.

The AWS SENSE Program shall not be confused with the AWS Certified Welder certification program.