IIW Annual Report 2025

LEARNING INTERNATIONAL AUTHORISATION BOARD MESSAGE OF IAB CHAIR AND CEO

Mr Fernando Mañas llW-IAB Chair (Spain)

Mrs Rute Ferraz llW-IAB CEO (Portugal)

In 2025, the IAB network continued to develop the technical initiatives undertaken by Groups A and B, focusing respectively on Education, Training and Qualification, and on Authorization and Certification. Strategic priorities concerning IAB governance, as well as the promotion and positioning of the IIW System, were also addressed at the IAB Board level. Meetings were held in hybrid format during the IIW winter sessions, and in person at the IIW Annual Assembly in Genoa, Italy, in June. A key milestone during the year was the strengthening of collaboration between the TMB and the IAB through the establishment of the joint Task Group TG TM/IA. This initiative supported the identification of emerging technologies and recent developments, contributing to the enhancement of key guidelines, including the one for the International Welding Engineer (IWE). The IAB continued to support the welding sector by promoting an effective global system for the education and qualification of professionals. This mission is fulfilled through the ongoing development and implementation of the IIW Education, Training, Qualification and Certification System. Several rules and guideline documents underwent review and revision during the year to ensure alignment with the most recent industry demands.

CERTIFICATION AND DIPLOMA ACTIVITY - 2025 RESULTS In 2025, the following were issued worldwide: • 7.789 Diplomas • 672 Personnel Certificates (new and renewals) • 728 Company Certificates (new and renewals) These figures represent a 9% overall increase compared to the previous year. Cumulatively, by the end of 2024, the system had issued: • 198.521 Diplomas

• 2.609 Personnel Certificates (only new) • 3.448 Company Certificates (only new)

A notable achievement was the accelerated digital transformation across the majority of ANBs and ANBCCs. The transition toward fully digital diplomas and certificates is expected to enhance document integrity while supporting sustainability objectives through reduced paper consumption. STRATEGIC OUTLOOK Looking ahead, the primary challenge lies in expanding the implementation of the IIW Education , Training , Qualification and Certification System , guided by the IIW strategy and IAB Operational Plan. Particular emphasis is placed on increasing adoption in Asia with examples, as the implementation of the International Additive Manufacturing System (IAMQS) guidelines in some Asian countries, and in Africa where some countries are joining in the welding system. The continued engagement of all Members is crucial to ensure long-term stability and sustainability of the IIW-IAB framework, the pursuit of new areas of activity, and the ability to respond effectively to evolving market requirements .

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