The American Weling Society (AWS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying. The organization is headquartered in Miami, Florida, but also conducts events and individual section and district meetings throughout the United States and in international locations. The organization is perhaps best known for its code and certification procedures, which provide industry standards for the welding and joining of metals, plastics and other materials. Through their publications, internet forums, member services, local and national events, educational resources, networking activities, and certification procedures, AWS keeps welding professionals and those interested in materials science up to date with the most current advances and procedures in the industry. As of September 2006, the society contains about 50,000 members, most within the United States.