AWS Welder Performance Qualifier study plan
AWS Welder Performance Qualifier · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ1)
Map all WPQ1 qualification variables (essential, supplementary essential, nonessential) from memory
Explain the difference between procedure qualification and performance qualification in writing
List the range-of-qualification rules for thickness, position, and process for a chosen welding process
Define essential variable changes that require requalification
Your checkpoint
A one-page summary table of WPQ1 variables with their qualification ranges and requalification triggers.
Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ1) & Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ2)
Compare WPQ1 and WPQ2 variable categories and identify shared versus unique requirements
Describe how welding procedure specifications (WPS) and procedure qualification records (PQR) support performance qualification
Outline the steps to qualify a welder for a new process or position
Identify common documentation errors in performance qualification records
Your checkpoint
A side-by-side comparison chart of WPQ1 and WPQ2 variables with at least 10 entries.
Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ2)
Explain the purpose and content of a PQR and how it supports a WPS
List the essential variables for procedure qualification for at least two welding processes
Describe the mechanical testing requirements (tensile, bend, impact) for procedure qualification
Outline the conditions under which a procedure qualification remains valid (e.g., essential variable changes)
Your checkpoint
A written procedure qualification checklist covering variables, tests, and acceptance criteria for one process.
Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ2) & Welding Coordination and QA (WCQA)
Explain how welding coordination ensures that qualified procedures and personnel are used in production
Describe the roles and responsibilities of welding coordination personnel
Identify the key elements of a quality assurance plan for welding activities
Outline how to verify that a WPS is being followed in the shop
Your checkpoint
A flow diagram linking procedure qualification, performance qualification, and production welding coordination.
Welding Coordination and QA (WCQA)
List the essential components of a welding quality assurance manual
Describe the process for controlling welding documentation (WPS, PQR, welder certificates)
Explain how to conduct a welding audit and what records to review
Identify common nonconformities in welding coordination and their corrective actions
Your checkpoint
An audit checklist for welding coordination with at least 15 checkpoints.
Welding Coordination and QA (WCQA) & Nondestructive Examination Coordination (NDEC)
Explain the role of nondestructive examination (NDE) in verifying welder and procedure qualification
List common NDE methods (visual, radiographic, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, penetrant) and their applications
Describe how NDE results are documented and used to accept or reject welds
Outline the coordination required between welding and NDE personnel
Your checkpoint
A matrix of NDE methods versus weld types and defect types they can detect.
Nondestructive Examination Coordination (NDEC)
Explain the requirements for NDE personnel qualification and certification
Describe the acceptance criteria for common weld defects as per applicable codes
Outline the process for handling NDE reports and traceability
Identify the steps to coordinate NDE timing with welding operations
Your checkpoint
A sample NDE coordination plan for a fabrication project, including method, timing, and documentation.
Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ1) & Welding Procedure Qualification (WPQ2) & Welding Coordination and QA (WCQA) & Nondestructive Examination Coordination (NDEC)
Review all domains using practice questions and identify weak areas
Synthesize key concepts from WPQ1, WPQ2, WCQA, and NDEC into a study summary
Practice explaining qualification requirements to a colleague or mock scenario
Develop a personal checklist for exam-day application of concepts
Your checkpoint
A comprehensive one-page study sheet covering all four domains with key variables and coordination steps.
Milestones
Week 4: Score at least 80% on a mixed quiz covering WPQ1 and WPQ2 variables and documentation.
Week 6: Complete the NDE methods matrix and explain the role of NDE in qualification to a peer.
Week 8: Achieve at least 85% on a full-length practice exam covering all domains.