Welding Week 2026: Why celebrating welding matters

From 6–10 July, Enginuity is joining forces with The Welding Institute (TWI) for Welding Week 2026 – a national campaign celebrating the people, skills and innovation behind one of engineering's most important professions. 

Welding is everywhere. It's behind the bridges we cross, the trains we travel on, the wind turbines generating clean energy and the advanced manufacturing that keeps the UK economy moving. Yet, despite its importance, it's a career that many people know very little about. That's exactly why Welding Week exists. 

Changing perceptions and inspiring future talent 

The UK needs more skilled welders. Employers across manufacturing, construction, defence, energy and many other industries are looking for people with welding and joining skills, but demand continues to outpace supply. 

At the same time, many young people, and their parents and teachers, aren't aware of just how varied a career in welding can be. 

Modern welding is a long way from the stereotypes. Alongside traditional fabrication, today's industry includes robotics, laser technologies, automation, plastics, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. There are routes into the profession through apprenticeships, college courses and higher education, with opportunities to build long, rewarding careers. 

Welding Week is about bringing those stories to life and helping more people see what's possible. 

Celebrating the people behind the profession 

Throughout the week, Enginuity and TWI will be sharing stories from across the sector, celebrating welders, apprentices, employers and educators who are helping to build the UK's future workforce. The campaign will also have a presence at WeldJoinExpo on 7 July, creating another opportunity to showcase the innovation and expertise that exists across the profession. 

Ann Watson MBE, CEO of Enginuity, said: "As the daughter of a welder, I've seen firsthand the pride and skill behind the profession. Welding Week celebrates those who keep the UK moving, while inspiring future talent to power innovation, growth and our economy." 

Caroline Gumble, CEO of The Welding Institute, added: "The technologies that join our world deserve to be celebrated. This week is about honouring the precision of material science and the expertise of the people who make it possible." 

Everyone can play a part in Welding Week. Whether you're sharing the story of an apprentice, recognising your welding team or highlighting the career opportunities within your organisation, every story helps raise awareness of the profession and inspire the next generation. 

Follow the conversation and share your own stories using #WeldingWeek26.

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