Welding Instructors' Perspectives on Using AI Technology in Welding Training

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe welding industry in the U.S. faces a serious shortage of skilled welders. The goal of this paper is to explore welding instructors' attitudes toward applications of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) as well as artificial intelligence (AI) in welding training. Such approaches could allow future welders to acquire welding skills faster and in a safer work environment. Also, the welding industry could attract a more diverse group of workers. This paper builds on previous literature and studies researching the use of AR, VR, and AI in welding and in other comparable industries. The paper reports findings from interviews with eight welding instructors at a community college to obtain insights regarding how they believe AR, VR, and AI could be used in welding training. The paper provides implications for using AR, VR, and AI to attract and retain the next generation of welders.