AWS QC47 & WeldCert Pro: The Future of Digital Welder Qualification & ATF Accreditation

For years, AWS Accredited Test Facilities (ATFs) have played a crucial role in welder qualification for certification, ensuring the industry maintains high standards of skill and safety. But behind the scenes, the process has been weighed down by paperwork, redundant testing procedures, and outdated administrative systems. 

That’s all changing with AWS QC47. AWS isn’t just updating a specification—it’s creating a modern, streamlined system that brings ATF operations into the digital age. 

With QC47, AWS is replacing QC 4 and QC 7 with one unified standard while introducing electronic credentialing, real-time validation, and digital qualification tracking. The result? Less paperwork, fewer administrative headaches, and a smarter, more efficient way to qualify welders. ATFs that adapt early won’t just meet new requirements—they’ll operate more efficiently, reduce costs, and enhance the experience for the welders they serve. 

A Smarter, Digital Future for ATF Accreditation and Welder Qualification 

The transition to QC47 isn’t just about compliance, it’s about adopting a digital-first approach to managing welder qualification. Until now, Accredited Testing Facilities had to maintain multiple sets of paper records and navigate two separate specifications. While effective, this system wasn’t built for today’s fast-paced, technology-driven industry. 

Now, with a single, modernized specification, ATFs can eliminate unnecessary paperwork and leverage digital tools that streamline operations and simplify qualification tracking. 

With QC47, ATFs will: 

• Simplify compliance by replacing two outdated specifications with a single, clear framework. 

• Reduce paperwork by moving to electronic credentialing and digital qualification records. 

• Strengthen oversight with digital documentation, making it easier to track compliance and ensure qualifiers (formerly test supervisors) meet updated requirements. 

For welders, these updates make maintaining their credentials easier than ever. Instead of managing paper documents, welders will use the online continuity log from WeldCert Pro, powered by Codeware, to track their qualifications digitally. This means: 

• Instant access to credentials, eliminating lost paperwork. 

• Easier transfers between employers, with digital proof of qualification. 

• A streamlined welder certification renewal process through an annual subscription that provides unlimited, real-time updates—simplifying what was previously a per-renewal procedure. 

These changes don’t just modernize the process—they make it more accessible, efficient, and future-ready. 

Transitioning to QC47: What ATFs Need to Know 

The transition to QC47 is already underway, and ATFs that prepare early will have the advantage. Whether you're renewing your ATF accreditation or applying for the first time, taking action now will keep you ahead of the curve.

Key Steps for ATFs:  

The following steps must ALL be completed by March 1, 2026 to comply with QC47: 

• Update Quality Manuals – ATFs must revise their Quality Manuals to align with QC47 

• Ensure Qualifiers Meet Credentialing Requirements – Previously known as "Test Supervisors," qualifiers must meet new training and certification requirements as outlined in QC47. 

• Adopt Digital Record-Keeping – Integrating tools like WeldCert Pro (Powered by Codeware) ensures real-time welder credential tracking and simplifies compliance audits. 

AWS is providing webinars, Q&A sessions, and online resources to help ATFs navigate the transition. Those who embrace QC47 early won’t just keep up with industry changes—they’ll lead them. For facilities considering ATF accreditation, QC47 provides a more streamlined entry point, making accreditation more efficient and accessible than ever. 

Take Action Today 

The future of welder qualification is digital, and QC47 is your opportunity to stay ahead. By transitioning early, ATFs can simplify compliance, reduce paperwork, and improve efficiency. 

Start preparing now by reviewing QC47, updating your Quality Manual, and exploring the AWS WeldCert Pro digital system. 
Need guidance?  Please visit the QC47 page for more information or contact mailto:maccreditation@aws.org. 

Learn more about QC47 and take the next step today.