Welder Performance Qualifier (WPQ1) Endorsement
Validate your skills in welder qualification testing and take the next step toward becoming a Senior Certified Welding Inspector.
Overview
Are you a Certified Welding Inspector aiming to strengthen your credentials or move toward Senior CWI status? The WPQ1 Endorsement validates your ability to plan, conduct, and evaluate welder qualification tests in accordance with current standards. This endorsement also satisfies a key requirement on the path to becoming a Senior Certified Welding Inspector.
- Class date: TBD
- Time: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Location: 32081 Corydon St, Lake Elsinore, CA, or Online (hybrid option available)
- Audience: Current CWIs and experienced inspection personnel seeking SCWI qualification
- Seats: Limited availability. Early registration encouraged.
- Format: One-day course (in person or online)
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Plan welder qualification tests that comply with governing codes and facility requirements.
- Verify test facility readiness, examiner responsibilities, and documentation needs.
- Confirm essential variables, materials, processes, and joint details prior to testing.
- Oversee test execution, including safety, supervision, and accurate recording of variables.
- Evaluate visual examination and NDE results against acceptance criteria.
- Coordinate destructive testing and interpret mechanical test results.
- Complete welder performance qualification records clearly and correctly.
- Identify common causes of test failure and recommend corrective actions.
- Align practices with B2.1/B2.1M, B5.4, and QC4 requirements.
- Successful participants earn the Welder Performance Qualifier (WPQ1) Endorsement from California Welding Institute.
- This endorsement supports the Senior CWI (SCWI) pathway by demonstrating competency in conducting welder qualification testing in line with AWS standards.
- Tuition: $495
- Books: Purchased separately by the participant (see list above)
- BPWQ: Best Practices for Performing a Welder Qualification Test
- AWS B2.1/B2.1M:2021 Specification for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification
- AWS B5.4:2025 Specification for the Qualification of Welder Test Facilities
- AWS QC4-89 Standard for Accreditation of Test Facilities