Welcome to the very first bonus episode of State of the Arc, powered by Arc Junkies! This is your fast, no-fluff update on what's happening right now across the welding and fabrication world.

In today’s episode: 🔥 Big push for Certified Robotic Arc Welding certifications 🔥 Why the skilled welder shortage is still hammering small and mid-sized shops 🔥 Key changes you need to know in the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – 2025 Edition

Whether you're running a shop, qualifying welders, or working on your own skills, staying ahead of the changes is key. Tune in, stay sharp, and keep raising the bar.

Sources:

• AWS Robotic Welding Certification Program: https://www.aws.org/certification-and-education/professional-certification/certified-robotic-arc-welding/

• Welder Shortage – BLS Welding Outlook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm

• The Fabricator – Workforce Development: https://www.thefabricator.com/topic/workforce-development

• AWS D1.1 2025 Code Book Information: https://pubs.aws.org/p/3315/d11d11m2025-structural-welding-code-steel

If you liked this bonus episode, make sure to follow Arc Junkies on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an update. Got a welding news story you think we should cover? Shoot me a message on Instagram @ArcJunkiesPodcast — I’d love to hear from you!

This week on Arc Junkies, Jason is joined by Tim Lucas — Marine Corps veteran, CWI, metal artist, and AWS Section leader. Tim shares his journey from chasing motorcycles and metal shaping to working in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and high-end fabrication. They dive into the importance of understanding the "why" behind welding, how standard operating procedures can make or break a growing shop, and the critical role AWS sections play in building the next generation of welders. They also break down the realities of the ProCodes Act, writing WPSs, and the future of welding education. Whether you're just getting started or leveling up your career, this episode is packed with practical advice, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

Give Tim a follow Here

Check out his website Here

Arc Junkies Podcast:

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Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

In this episode, Jason talks with Gavin Young from Baer Welding in Providence, Utah. Gavin shares his journey from sweeping floors at age 12 to working on high-end custom fabrication projects around the world. They discuss Baer’s evolution from a garage shop to a precision-driven ornamental welding company, their work on the massive Temple Square project, and how they train new hires with real-world testing and mentorship. Gavin talks about the balance of shop and field work, why TIG is king for quality, and how today’s young welders can set themselves up for success in the trade.

Follow Baer Welding on Instagram Here 

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

In this episode, Jason sits down with Jake LeGrand to talk about everything from Fabtech networking to the realities of running a custom sign-making business. Jake shares his unique journey from structural testing and engineering into the world of metal art, highlighting the challenges of freight shipping, material sourcing, and the creative process behind his work. They dive into marketing strategies, shop setup, and the importance of staying connected with the maker community. Whether you’re into fabrication, design, or building a business around your craft, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

Follow Jake on Instagram Here

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

In this conversation, Jason and Dick Holdren discuss the current state of the welding industry, focusing on the importance of skills training, the challenges of legislative measures affecting welding standards, and the growing recognition of skilled trades. They explore various welding testing methods, the significance of workmanship samples, and the impact of automation on the workforce. The discussion also highlights the Freedom to Invest Act, which aims to allow savings for vocational training, and emphasizes the need for more welders in the industry as demand continues to rise. In this conversation, Jason and Richard discuss the increasing role of automation in the welding industry, the development of new certification programs, and the complexities of navigating ISO standards. They explore the importance of standardization in welding qualifications and share insights on future collaborations and advancements in the field.

For more information on how you can get involved w/ AWS click Here 

Joining me this week is Kyle Taylor, owner and operator of @gogauge Kyle is currently a Certified Welding Supervisor prepping for his CWI and ultimately aspiring to become a Certified Welding Engineer. In this episode we chat about some of the cool metals he gets to weld on, testing requirements, procedure development and of course the Go-Gauge.

Follow Kyle on Instagram Here

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

In this captivating episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, host Jason Becker chats with Steve Kost, a veteran and accomplished ironworker, as they explore his transition from military service to a rewarding career in ironworking. Steve shares insights from his time as a hull technician in the Navy and his involvement with the SeaBees, highlighting the strong sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that resonates within the ironworking community.

The discussion also touches on Steve's reintegration into civilian life, underscoring the critical role of mentorship and community support. They discuss the intricacies and rewards of ironworking, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and thorough planning. Parallel to his career, Steve opens up about his journey as an artist, noting how creative outlets have supported his mental health and facilitated community connection and recognition.

The episode sheds light on the importance of embracing opportunities and recognizing the value of one’s work, offering profound insights for veterans navigating post-military careers and for anyone facing new life and work challenges.

Follow Steve here

Check out his website Here  

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

In this captivating episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason welcomes Jonathan, the mastermind behind JD Stairs, for a deep dive into the intricacies of stair manufacturing and entrepreneurship in the heart of Las Vegas. Celebrating 20 years of innovative stair designs, Jonathan shares the adventurous journey from his early days in Canada to establishing a successful business in the bustling markets of Las Vegas. The conversation explores the evolution of JD Stairs from simple beginnings to becoming a premier custom stair manufacturer, touching upon the challenges of transitioning from a technician to a business owner and the importance of family in building a thriving enterprise. Jonathan’s insights into adapting business strategies, embracing technological advances, and the role of a business coach in refining operations provide invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to scale their craftsmanship into a booming business.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

Weld Summit

https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform

Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Travis Jumper discusses the advancements in welding training technologies, particularly focusing on virtual and augmented reality systems. He shares insights from his research on the benefits of these technologies in reducing the learning curve for students, providing real-time feedback, and enhancing muscle memory. The discussion also covers the cost savings associated with implementing these systems in educational programs and explores various funding opportunities available for welding programs. In this conversation, Dr. Travis Jumper discusses the integration of augmented and virtual reality systems in welding education, emphasizing the importance of community support, funding, and collaborative approaches to enhance training. He highlights the return on investment for educational equipment, the cost savings associated with advanced technology, and the challenges faced in rural schools. The discussion also covers the advantages and disadvantages of using these systems, as well as practical advice for educators looking to implement such technologies in their programs.

Join the AWS today Here 

Ryan Boyd is the Director of Sales Engineering for Walter Surface Technologies. In this episode we talk a bit about grinder safety, proper use of abrasives, selecting the right abrasives for the work you're doing and also chat about some of the testing involved in manufacturing abrasives.

Arc Junkies Podcast:

Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D

Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com

Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home

Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/

Friends of the Show:

American Welding Society Conferences

IEC Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/iec/

Use BECKER at Checkout and get a free gift at the event.

Outlaw Leather LLC

Outlawleather.com

Instagram: @outlawleatherusa

Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods

International Welding Bureau

Internationalweldingbureau.com

Everlast Welders

Instagram: @everlastwelders 

YouTube: Everlast Welders        

Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI

Use Codeword ARCJUNKIES at checkout to get upgraded to a free Nova Foot Pedal and TIG Torch with the purchase of any machine that comes with a stock foot pedal and TIG Torch.

Walter Surface Technologies

https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0

ISOTUNES:

Instagram: @isotunesaudio

Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10. 

Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase