In 1999, the IIW launched an international programme for the qualification of personnel involved in welding operations.

Under the supervision of the International Authorization Board (IAB), this scheme allows:

- the Authorized National Bodies (ANB) to deliver the Diplomas of International Welding Engineers (IWE), Technologists (IWT), Specialists (IWS), Practitioners, Inspectors and Welders, amongst others.

- the Authorized National Bodies for Company Certification (ANBCC) to deliver the certification ISO 3834 “Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials”.

The IAB’s day-to-day work is handled by the IAB Secretariat and Working Groups A (Education, Training and Qualification) and B (Implementation and Authorization).

Effectively, holders of IWE, IWT and IWS Diplomas are considered to be able to be Responsible Welding Coordinators, according to ISO Standard, ISO 14731, “Welding Coordination; Tasks and Responsibilities”. Qualifications of International Welding Inspection Personnel (IWIP) are referenced in ISO 3834, “Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials”.

Due to the continually increasing, global use of ISO 14731 and ISO 3834 Standards, numerous countries are taking advantage of the IIW International Programmes.