The AWS Foundation's Careers in Welding Mobile Exhibit is gearing up to hit the road for its 2021 tour. Since 2011, the Careers in Welding Trailer has been a driving force for welding education and career development. Sponsored by Lincoln Electric, the 53-foot single-expandable trailer provides visitors with a unique learning experience. Its wide array of hands-on exhibits engages the senses and sparks an interest in the welding industry.

"I'm looking forward to being back on the road spreading the good word about this incredible trade," said Stephanie Hoffman, Program Manager Workforce Development, AWS Foundation. "In 2019, on behalf of the AWS Foundation, I awarded $49,000 in scholarships during the length of the tour, and this year we are excited to do it again."

The trailer's first stop of the season is at the Kane County Fair in St. Charles, Illinois, from July 14-18, 2021. Additional tour stops include Minot, North Dakota; Cheyenne, Wyoming; Des Moines, Iowa; and more before making a stop at FABTECH 2021 in Chicago, Illinois.

From September 13-16, 2021, the Careers in Welding Mobile Exhibit will be parked at the back of the Welding Pavilion on the show floor in Chicago. AWS invites attendees to try their hand at virtual welding, network with industry insiders as well as a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship. Also, while visiting the trailer, attendees should be on the lookout for "Metal Maiden," a metal-art sculpture in the likeness of the Statue of Liberty, created by Stephanie Hoffman and Barbie the Welder as part of the AWS Arc 2 Art project.