Because welding traditionally invoked an image of physically demanding work in harsh environments, it held less appeal for women. However, as women explore welding education and associated career options, they realize that there are more jobs in welding than they imagined.
“When I started as a freshman, I had no idea what I was going into, because my experience in welding in terms of careers was being a welder or operator,” said Cici Miller. Now a senior at Pennsylvania College of Technology, Cici will earn a bachelor’s degree in welding and fabrication engineering technologies with a minor in robotics.
Cici Miller
Welding Engineering Technology Student, Pennsylvania College of Technology
As a sophomore, she started interning at Miller Electric Mfg. Co., one of the world’s premier welding companies, and spent her first year among engineers to learn about industrial welding systems. With her minor in robotics, she was granted time at their automation facility, and it had a big impact.
“I realized I want to go into a product specialist role, but within automation,” Miller said. “It was a moment of ‘Oh wow, I found the path I want to follow,’ so I will work for Miller after I graduate.”
What could Miller’s future look like? Possibly a lot like that of Karen Gilgenbach, who is now the senior vice president of marketing at MATHESON, a leading gas and welding supply company. Karen’s career has encompassed roles as sales technician, regional product manager of automation, advanced fabrication specialist, district manager, and zone vice president, managing more than 200 associates.
When Gilgenbach started her welding career, many well-meaning industry professionals underestimated her welding abilities and technical interest. To eliminate the disconnect between perception and skills, Gilgenbach also became an American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector, a credential from the AWS that commands instant respect.
Karen Gilgenbach
Senior Vice President of Marketing, MATHESON; AWS-Certified Welding Inspector
“Having CWI on my business card changed the trajectory of my entire career,” Gilgenbach said. Her other credentials include becoming the first female AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welding Technician, three advanced degrees, and becoming a member of the AWS Board of Directors.
To honor her early mentor in welding automation, she worked with other AWS members to start the John F. Hinrichs Memorial Scholarship with the AWS Foundation, the philanthropic arm of AWS that awards more than $2 million in scholarships each year.
“The impact of the AWS scholarships goes far beyond the monetary value,” says Karen. “They show the candidates that the welding industry cares about them, that they belong here, and that they have a huge support network to tap into at AWS.”
Inspection career
Tori Hay started welding in high school and won the Illinois State SkillsUSA welding fabrication team competition. When looking at college paths, she “didn’t even realize welding engineering was an option,” but her mom discovered Ferris State University. A campus tour sealed the deal, both with Mom and Hay.
For financial support, Hay applied for and was awarded the William A. Rice Family, Women in Welding Scholarship, an AWS Foundation National Scholarship, which allowed her to focus her attention on coursework as she earns a degree in welding engineering technology.
Tori Hay
Welding Engineering Technology Student, Ferris State University
“Scholarship applicants should strive for academic excellence because many are merit-based,” Hay said. “Also, be genuine when writing personal essays. Describe how the welding industry has impacted your life. I would not recommend using AI because the phrasing becomes detectable by others, so it can come off as disingenuous. Just be yourself and share your story. Lastly, start applying as soon as you can. That deadline comes up faster than you think, and you don’t want to miss out.”
In addition to classwork, Hay also passed the CWI exam. Upon graduation, she intends to work for her father, a Senior CWI, who owns an inspection firm called Construction Services of Illinois. On the job, Hay will perform inspections using a variety of techniques and evaluate how companies comply with welding codes.
When you think about the safe construction of structural steel buildings, bridges, boilers, and pipelines, consider that the accomplishments of women like Hay, Miller, and Gilgenbach make it all possible.
Trish Fliss
Senior Media Specialist, American Welding Society (AWS)
