Recap: AWS District 17 Conference

Date of Event: 06/06/2025

Location: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Round Rock, TX

Number of Attendees: 21

Presenter/Notable Guest(s): District 17 Director Viji Kuruvilla led the conference.

During lunch, Kyle Naylor from Athena Manufacturing presented on workforce opportunities offered at the company to welding students.

Welding Journal staff member Kristin Campbell served as the staff representative.

Event Summary: At the AWS District 17 Conference, many members gathered from the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, North TX, Ozark, Central TX, Central Arkansas, East TX, and Northeastern Arkansas Sections to select representatives to attend various future events, receive awards, and get scholarships. As a surprise, District 17 Director Viji Kuruvilla was presented with AWS Life Member honors. After the successful day-long event, members enjoyed burgers for dinner and had a fun time bowling. The Central TX Section served as the host.

During the AWS District 17 Conference, attendees smiled for a group selfie.
At the event, District 17 Director Viji Kuruvilla was presented with AWS Life Member honors.
Toward the end of the conference, participants posed for a group shot. In the front row (from left) are Brooklyn Higa, Kristin Campbell, Jim Bridwell, Johnny Collins, Daniela Lowry, Thomas Hinkle, Todd Turley, and J Jones. In the back row (from left) are Eric Spahrmann, Michael J. Hinterlach, Bryan Baker, Viji Kuruvilla, Josh Winterscheid, Toby McEntire, Nick Gamer, John D. Trotter, Jimmy Stokley, Thomas Gongloff, Matt Johnson, and Charles Jeffress. Not pictured: Kyle Naylor.