In this episode, Jason reconnects with Weston Spencer to discuss the latest in welding tools, techniques, and shop innovations. From the benefits of using Rockmount Brutus rods for bolt extractions to the savings achieved with in-house laser engraving, Weston shares valuable insights from his bustling shop. The conversation also veers into family life, adventures in saltwater fishing, and the challenges of balancing passion projects with daily work demands. Whether you're a maker, fabricator, or...
Dec 23, 2024•2 hr 50 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of Arc Junkies, Jason Becker is joined by Scott Witkowski and Juvi Calvo from Republic Testing Labs in LaPorte, Texas, to discuss the revolutionary International Welding Bureau (IWB) . This groundbreaking initiative aims to transform the welding industry by simplifying certifications, connecting welders to better job opportunities, and utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance skill development. The conversation dives into the challenges of welding certifications, the importan...
Dec 16, 2024•2 hr 40 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jason Becker sits down with Chris Hale, a visionary fabricator and community builder, to explore his incredible journey in welding, restoration, and innovation. Chris shares the fascinating story behind his ambitious project to restore a historic high-voltage laboratory and transform it into a vibrant space for makers, artists, and dreamers. Discover how Chris combines creativity, technical skills, and collaboration to bring new life to forgotten spaces while fostering a support...
Dec 09, 2024•2 hr 18 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jason sits down with Tim Baber from College of the Canyons to explore the evolving landscape of welding education. Tim shares his journey from aerospace to academia, discusses innovative teaching methods, and emphasizes the importance of adapting to new technologies in welding. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of welding training and how educators are preparing students for industry demands. Education/Certification page: https://weld.ng/n3j9e5 Foundation page for scholars...
Dec 04, 2024•54 min•Transcript available on Metacast Summary In this weeks episode Harry and I dive into the art and science of brazing, particularly in the context of motorcycle frames. Harry shares his journey into brazing, the resurgence of this technique in modern applications, and the technical challenges involved in mastering it. The conversation also touches on the importance of temperature control, the tools used in brazing, and the personal experiences that shape a craftsman's approach. Additionally, Harry reveals his unique choice of mus...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast "In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, I sit down with Tyler Mullen, the Business Administrator and Continuous Improvement Manager at Pro Tools. We dive into the incredible journey of how Pro Tools started in a small garage and grew into a go-to name in tube benders and fabrication tools. Tyler shares stories about their beginnings, the challenges of manufacturing, and how they now serve industries ranging from automotive and marine to oil and gas and DIY fabricators. Whether you’re a prof...
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I sit down with Dorman Vick to dive into the transformative power of vocational education, especially in the welding industry. We start by discussing the importance of hands-on learning and how it keeps students engaged and passionate about the trade. Dorman shares his experiences in building a successful welding program, highlighting the need for modern equipment and innovative teaching methods to meet the demands of today’s workforce. One of the key themes we explore is the cr...
Nov 18, 2024•2 hr 34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Summary In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, Jason interviews Whiskey Rob, the master distiller of Blackened Whiskey. They discuss Rob's journey from serving in the Army to becoming a master distiller, his experiences in the music industry, and the intricacies of whiskey production. Rob shares insights on the differences between whiskey and bourbon, the aging process, and the importance of water quality in distilling. He also talks about his collaboration with Metallica and the creative p...
Nov 11, 2024•2 hr 32 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jason Becker talks with Andy Provost, a seasoned CWI and mentor, about the importance of certifications and endorsements in the welding industry. Andy shares his personal journey, from the start of his career to becoming a Senior CWI, along with his insights on maintaining industry standards, preparing for endorsements, and mentoring the next generation of inspectors. A must-listen for those navigating the world of welding certifications! For more information on AWS Certificatio...
Nov 06, 2024•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Arch Junkies podcast, host Jason interviews Ben, a fabrication expert from Belgium, who shares insights into innovative techniques in stage construction using Sigmund fabrication tables. Ben discusses the importance of preparation, precision, and adapting to new methods in the workshop. He emphasizes the investment in quality equipment and the organization of tools to enhance productivity. The conversation also touches on the welding techniques used in building large struc...
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Guy and I dive into a conversation about the journey from welding in the field to teaching the next generation. We discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from hands-on welding work to the classroom, sharing insights into how education and real-world experience intersect. We explore the evolving technology in welding, the importance of early exposure, and the role of mentorship. Tune in to learn about the unique challenges educators face and how a passion for weldi...
Oct 28, 2024•2 hr 3 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Jason sits down with Dr. Shahrukh Irani at FabTech 2024 to break down the power of lean manufacturing—specifically tailored for custom job shops. Dr. Irani, a leading expert in industrial engineering, shares how job shops can streamline workflows, reduce waste, and increase profitability without the cookie-cutter Toyota model. From creating efficient work cells to improving ergonomics and employee engagement, this episode is packed with actionable insights for fabricators and sh...
Oct 23, 2024•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast While at FabTech 2024 I the opportunity to do a Cross Pod episode with Max Ceron from the CWB Association Podcast, Kevin Johnson from the Welding Business Owners Podcast and Frank Vargas from the Torch Tales Podcast. We try to do a Cross Pod at each FabTech and this year we brought Frankie into the mix. In this episode we talk all about setting up your own business and all the behind the scenes details of running a business no one ever sees or talks about. So if you are considering setting up yo...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast Summary In this engaging conversation, Jason and Sophia Fulgoni delve into the world of boilermaking, exploring Sophia's unique journey from a background in media arts to becoming a skilled Boilermaker. They discuss the challenges and rewards of working in the trades, the importance of safety and proper equipment, and the impact of social media on the welding industry. Sophia shares her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field, the significance of education and mentorship, and her aspira...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Transcript available on Metacast Summary In this engaging conversation, Jason and Josh discuss the importance of passion in welding education, innovative approaches to career and technical education, and the role of social media in connecting with students. They explore the challenges faced in welding education, the journey into teaching, and the significance of community support. The discussion emphasizes creating a positive learning environment, the impact of technology, and preparing students for the workforce. They also tou...
Oct 07, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Transcript available on Metacast Summary In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, Jason and Dave Rubin discuss the journey of heavy fabrication, the challenges of running a one-man shop, and the importance of balancing business and craftsmanship. They delve into the significance of networking, adapting to new technologies, and the role of social media in the fabrication industry. The conversation also touches on the benefits of outsourcing work to improve efficiency and the critical nature of understanding contracts and dead...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason and Scooter Cantweld discuss Scooter's journey from a hobbyist welder to a professional in the aerospace industry. They explore the challenges of custom fabrication, the importance of quality in welding, and the balance between family life and career aspirations. Scooter shares his experiences in the welding industry, including the lessons learned from both successes and failures, and emphasizes the need for proper techniques to ensure safety and...
Sep 23, 2024•2 hr 41 min•Transcript available on Metacast John Derham, owner of KC Fab, shares his journey of starting a fabrication business and the challenges he faces in scaling and expanding. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and transparency in his social media presence and how it has helped him connect with his audience. John discusses the growth of his business, the types of projects they undertake, and the need for more space to accommodate their increasing workload. He also talks about the costs and challenges of running a business,...
Sep 16, 2024•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this months episode of Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Joe Young and I discuss the emerging technologies in the welding field, including automation and additive manufacturing. We highlight the importance of having a strong foundation in welding fundamentals and how automation is a supplement to the labor shortage, not a replacement for skilled welders. We also mention the need for welders to understand the settings and variables that affect the end result of a weld when programming robots. The discussi...
Sep 04, 2024•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast Kevin discusses the importance of implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and job software in his fabrication shop to improve efficiency and quality. He shares how he took a step back to reevaluate his company and make necessary changes after a conversation with Josh from the Tradesman Experience. Kevin emphasizes the need for clear expectations, written job descriptions, and accountability in order to scale the business and provide a better product to customers. He also highlights the...
Sep 02, 2024•1 hr 27 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a deep and insightful conversation with Bill Newell , a seasoned welder and industry expert with over 50 years of experience. Known as one of the welding industry's "Jedi Masters", Bill shares his incredible journey through the welding world, from the early days of working in bridge construction to becoming a mentor and a sought-after consultant. Jason and Bill discuss the evolution of welding techniques, the importance of mentorship...
Aug 26, 2024•1 hr 26 min•Transcript available on Metacast This weeks guest is Juvi Calvo, President of TipTig and Republic Testing Labs in Houston, Texas. In this episode we dive into the changes we’d love to see in the welding industry to enhance the trade as a whole. We all know about the labor shortages, the skills gap, and the push for automation to support skilled workers, with employers struggling to find qualified help. During our conversation, Juvi and I discuss a few ideas on how to address these issues. We hope that some of you will consider ...
Aug 19, 2024•2 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a conversation with Eric Pleil , a welding business owner and coach who transitioned from running a successful fabrication business to helping others succeed in the welding industry. Eric shares his journey from starting out with custom motorcycle work to growing his own welding business and eventually moving into manufacturing. He delves into the challenges of balancing work with business development, the importance of building rela...
Aug 12, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this conversation, Jason and Daryl discuss various certifications available through AWS for welders. They highlight the importance of certifications for career advancement and explore the benefits of specific certifications such as the Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS) and Certified Welding Educator (CWE). They also touch on the significance of lean manufacturing and the use of cobots in the welding industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and staying updated wi...
Aug 07, 2024•2 hr 30 min•Transcript available on Metacast John Weslow shares his journey of addiction and recovery, highlighting the challenges he faced and the support he received. He discusses his experiences with substance abuse, including using drugs and staying awake for days on end. He talks about his time in rehab and the importance of finding a new focus, such as bodybuilding, to replace his addictive behaviors. John emphasizes the significance of friendship and support in his recovery journey and the impact it has had on his life. He also disc...
Aug 05, 2024•2 hr 14 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker hosts a conversation with Phil Garland, a welding applications technician at Fronius and a self-taught welder. Phil shares his remarkable journey from knowing nothing about welding to becoming an expert in the field, all while balancing his passion for welding with his life on a family farm. Phil's story is filled with interesting moments, including his early struggles with welding, his unique learning experiences, and his transition to wo...
Jul 29, 2024•2 hr 30 min•Transcript available on Metacast Aaron Pepper is a Tig Welder at Boeing who welds Titanium parts that are flight critical for F15’s and F18’s. In this episode we discuss some of the nuances about welding titanium and how critical proper preparation and cleaning is when it comes to this exotic alloy. We also chat about the rigorous testing required to do the work that he does. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://ww...
Jul 22, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Transcript available on Metacast Brent E. Boling shares his journey into welding and inspection, emphasizing the importance of mentors and continuous learning in the industry. The conversation covers topics such as the tight-knit welding community, the need for proper training and understanding of codes and procedures, the challenges of misinformation, and the role of inspection in ensuring quality and safety. The most common discontinuities encountered in inspections are undersized welds, undercut, and overlap. The importance ...
Jul 10, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast Today’s guest is Jaylon Marshall, a young welding entrepreneur out of Little Rock Arkansas. Jaylon has a massive work ethic and is super savvy when it comes to business strategies. Right now he’s in the process of taking his current business to the next level. In this episode we talk about how and why he chose welding as a career path and how he started his business. Jaylon shares some of the ways he got setup and how he initially marketed his new business to his community. He has an extremely i...
Jul 08, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Transcript available on Metacast Joining me in this week’s episode is Mike Barnett a traveling welder doing structural steel, manufacturing and Millwright work all across the US. In this episode, Mike and I discuss his journey from starting his own custom shop, to becoming a traveling welder, we also discuss the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the welding profession. Follow Mike on Instagram Here Follow Mike on TikTok @bigmike326 Sign up for Ars and Ales Here Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodc...
Jul 01, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
