AWS Appoints Carey Chen as CEO!

The American Welding Society (AWS) has announced the appointment of Carey Chen as its new Executive Director and CEO, succeeding Robert Roth, who has served as interim executive director/CEO.

Chen brings extensive leadership experience to AWS, having previously held CEO roles at Fathom Digital Manufacturing Solutions, Cadrex Manufacturing Solutions, and Incodema Holdings LLC. He also served as Executive Chairman/President of CINCINNATI Incorporated and held prominent financial leadership roles, including Vice President/CFO of Hypertherm Inc., Wiremold | Legrand, and Bayliner Marine Corp.

Chen has been an active supporter and volunteer with AWS and the AWS Foundation since 2007. He served as Treasurer from 2015 to 2022, during which time he chaired key committees, including Finance & Business Development, Investment, and Audit, while also serving on the AWS Board of Directors and the AWS Foundation Board of Trustees.

Chen holds a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and an MBA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His extensive background in manufacturing, finance, and organizational leadership uniquely positions him to advance AWS’s mission of supporting welding professionals and fostering innovation in the welding industry.

Chen’s appointment reflects AWS’s commitment to strong leadership as it continues to grow and support the welding community globally.