In this episode, host Beau Wigington travels to Atlanta, Georgia, for the SkillsUSA National Championships. He speaks with competitors, instructors, volunteers, and judges to uncover the excitement, challenges, and valuable insights from competing on a national level.

Key Topics Covered:

• Insights on overcoming nerves and succeeding in welding competitions.

• Essential preparation strategies and tips from competitors and instructors.

• Diverse competition categories including individual welding, team fabrication, leadership, welding sculpture, and American Spirit.

• Surprising benefits and unexpected challenges faced by contestants.

• Advice for first-time competitors and the lifelong value of participating in SkillsUSA.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Put yourself on a strong time limit in the shop before you get here, and make sure you don't deviate from that." – Carter Livingston

• "Just go for it and you might win." – V Wenham

• "Every time you go out to a job site, you're going to be competing for the job. Getting yourself out there for a competition is only going to better prepare you." – Josh Smith

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• Welding Symbols Course https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington 

• E-Mail : [email protected]

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with Ashley Dunlap, the founder of Ashe's Custom Welding. Ashley shares her journey of balancing a full-time job while launching her own welding business. She discusses her path into welding, the challenges of entrepreneurship, sourcing materials for her unique creations, and effectively using social media for promotion.

Key Topics Covered:

• Balancing a full-time welding job with entrepreneurship

• Practical advice for mastering TIG welding techniques

• Sourcing materials creatively for custom welding projects

• Leveraging social media effectively without advanced tech skills

• Navigating the initial challenges of starting a welding business

Memorable Quotes:

• “Practice your filler rod. If you have that muscle memory down, you can focus more on the weld.”

• “There is no balance. It's very tricky… I'd be answering emails during breaks, welding after shifts until the sun goes down.”

• “Make sure you love what you do, because you won’t see money right away. It’s a very long process.”

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• See all the courses available here - https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M 

Guest's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: @ashes_customwelding https://www.instagram.com/ashes_customwelding/ 

• TikTok: @ashes_customwelding https://www.tiktok.com/@ashes_customwelding 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.dunlap.3597/ 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ashescustomwelding 

• Website: https://ashescustomwelding.com/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington sits down with Max Ceron, Executive Director of the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) Association, to explore actionable ways welders of every experience level can give back, mentor others, and strengthen the industry we all rely on.

Key Topics Covered:

• Community service as the career “cheat code” for welders

• Practical volunteer paths: Skills competitions, AWS/CWB chapters & school outreach

• Busting mentorship myths—why you don’t need decades of experience to help

• “Trades-adjacent” networking: suppliers, educators, inspectors, vendors

• Building inclusive shop cultures that attract and retain talent

• Inspiring the next generation by showcasing welding success stories

• Lessons from international outreach in Ghana and Canada’s far north

• Level-up strategies when you feel you’ve plateaued at work

Memorable Quotes:

• “If you want to make your life easy, help others—that’s the cheat code.” – Max Ceron

• “Networks don’t come to you; you’ve got to get out there and connect.” – Max Ceron

• “Never run away from a job—always run toward the next one.” – Max Ceron

Resources Mentioned:

• CWB Association Membership - https://www.cwbgroup.org/ 

• Skills Canada - https://www.skillscompetencescanada.com/en/ 

• SkillsUSA - https://www.skillsusa.org/ 

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• See all the courses at here - https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M 

Max's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: @askmax75 https://www.instagram.com/askmax75/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-max-ceron

•  CWB Association Podcast - https://cwbapodcast.buzzsprout.com/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beauwigington/ 

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington takes listeners to the Yeti Welding Competition in Spanish Fork, Utah, where he speaks with competitors, judges, spectators, and the man behind Yeti Welding, Dillon Hales. Competitors share their biggest challenges, surprises, and strategies for success, providing invaluable insight into what it takes to thrive in a welding competition.

Key Topics Covered:

• Common pitfalls competitors faced, including 3G vertical welding, time constraints, and reading welding symbols

• Advice from experienced welding instructors on competition preparation

• The importance of cleanliness, consistency, and weld tie-ins during judging

• Dylan Hale’s journey of building Yeti Welding from a farm workshop to a successful fabrication business

• Networking and community-building within the welding industry

Memorable Quotes:

• "Fail early, fail often, and pay attention. Because in the real world, there's going to be a next time." – Jared Massic, High School Welding Instructor

• "I just want [my students] to know they can do hard things. Putting myself in this nervous situation, doing something difficult, I know I can do hard things too." – Jared Massic

• "Most welders know how to weld, but they don't know how to run a business." – Dillon Hales, Owner of Yeti Welding

Resources Mentioned:

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• Welding Symbols Course – Gain confidence reading welding symbols https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M 

Guest's Instagram & Contact:

• Dillion Hales: @yeti_welding https://www.instagram.com/yeti_welding/ 

• Rodrigo Rodarte: @RRfab https://www.instagram.com/rr_fab/ , @overkillracingandchassis https://www.instagram.com/overkillracingandchassis/

• Jared Massic: @mass.welds https://www.instagram.com/mass.welds/ , @mmhs_welding https://www.instagram.com/mmhs_welding/

• Kamryn Price (Athena Welding): @athenaweldingcco https://www.instagram.com/athenaweldingco/ 

• Michael Swanson: @dark.arcllc https://www.instagram.com/dark.arcllc/ 

• Jacob Tobler: @barracuda.fabrication https://www.instagram.com/barracuda.fabrication/ 

• Tyson Nelson: @fineironllc https://www.instagram.com/fineironllc/ 

• Michael Miller: https://www.amfab-steel.com/ 

• Benjamin Cornaby: @benjamincornaby https://www.instagram.com/benjamincornaby/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with John Malecki, former NFL player turned successful YouTube creator and entrepreneur in the maker space. John shares his unexpected journey from professional football to building custom furniture and creating engaging content on YouTube. He provides valuable insights on overcoming perfectionism, implementing metalwork into woodworking projects, and growing a successful brand online.

Key Topics Covered:

• Transitioning from professional sports to woodworking and content creation

• Tips for makers to effectively incorporate metalwork into their projects

• Essential advice for aspiring YouTubers and content creators

• The importance of storytelling and audience engagement over perfectionism

• John's favorite projects, including building smokers and custom furniture

• Development of his successful brand, Shop Shades

Memorable Quotes:

• “I didn’t quit football to become a maker. I'm a maker out of necessity.”

• “If you want to win on YouTube, stop making content for you and start making it for your audience.”

• “We need more people with their hands on welders and their hands on tools—we're in dying trades.”

Resources Mentioned:

• SmokerBuilder.com: Kits and resources for building smokers (SmokerBuilder.com)

• Shop Shades: Stylish and comfortable safety glasses (johnmalecki.com)

• Creator Playbook: John's mentorship program for content creators (johnmalecki.com)

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• See all the different courses you can start learning today - https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M

Check out all of John Malecki’s Content

• Website - johnmalecki.com

• Build YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@John_Malecki 

• Unscrewed YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMaleckiUnscrewed 

• Instagram - @john_malecki - https://www.instagram.com/john_malecki/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this week’s episode, host Beau Wigington speaks with Jason Corder, a 28-year veteran of Ironworkers Local 433 in Los Angeles and current Welding Program Manager for Iron Workers International. Jason shares insights into the comprehensive role of an iron worker, union benefits, the apprenticeship process, and advice for aspiring tradespeople.

Key Topics Covered:

• What differentiates ironworkers from traditional welders

• Overview of the iron worker apprenticeship and journeyman progression

• Common welding processes in ironworking (SMAW, FCAW)

• Misconceptions about climbing tests and height fears

• Modern practices and the legacy of riveting

• Job stability, overtime opportunities, and vacation structures

• Advantages of joining the Iron Workers Union, including paid maternity leave

• Essential skills and attitudes for success in the ironworking trade

• Typical jobs and responsibilities of ironworkers

• Earning potential and pay structure for ironworkers

Memorable Quotes:

• “The biggest thing in any skilled trade is have the heart and show up.”

• “Women make better welders than men...the attention to detail.”

• “My job as a foreman is to find out where that person is gonna make the most money for themselves and the company's gonna make money at the same time.”

Resources Mentioned:

Iron Workers International: Official website for more information about apprenticeships and careers https://www.ironworkers.org 

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20:

• Basic Shielded Metal Arc Welding - https://foxly.link/xelOeb

Jason Corder Contact:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-corder-493a89249/ 

• Email: [email protected]

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington chats with Adrian Benitez, welding instructor at SteelTech Academy, part of the BZI group of companies. Adrian shares how he unexpectedly landed his role, what it's like training new welders in structural steel, and why attitude matters more than experience. From self-shielded flux core tips to game-changing tech like the Beam Champ, Adrian dives deep into what makes BZI different—and why it might be the right place for your next welding job.

Key Topics Covered:

Adrian’s unique journey from California to SteelTech Academy

The role of bilingual training in welding education

Why knowing how to use a grinder is harder than most think

Differences between self-shielded and dual-shield flux core welding

What the Beam Champ is and how it makes jobs safer and faster

How BZI builds structures from the top down

Training structure and certifications offered by SteelTech Academy

Day-to-day life for welders working field jobs at BZI

Safety investments and personal gear provided by BZI

Advice for newcomers breaking into structural welding

Memorable Quotes:

“I thought I was gonna go in the field to weld—but I landed at SteelTech Academy instead.”

“People call us wire monkeys, but high deposition never lies.”

“Amateurs do it until they get it right. Professionals do it until they don’t get it wrong.”

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

Basic Wire Process Welding - https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M

Guest's Content & Contact:

Instagram: @meadrian1717 https://www.instagram.com/meadrian1717/

Connect with Beau Wigington

Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/

Email: [email protected]

WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa

In this episode, Beau Wigington chats with Jason Becker, former host of Weld.com and current owner of Underground Metalworks and Weld Works Training Center as well as host of the Arc Junkies Podcast. Jason shares expert insights and practical advice on successfully preparing for and passing welding certification tests, emphasizing critical techniques, common pitfalls, and essential tools for welders at all experience levels.

Key Topics Covered:

• The importance of understanding and following hold points in welding tests

• Common weld test failures and how to avoid them

• Essential preparation techniques for test plates

• Recommended specialty tools for welding tests

• Differences between bend tests and x-ray tests

• How to maintain your welding certifications

• Practical advice for managing test anxiety and maintaining consistency

Memorable Quotes:

• "Prep is 80% of a successful weld."

• "Test day is not the day to add flare—weld like you do every day."

• "Practice until you can't get it wrong."

Resources Mentioned:

• Underground Metalworks: Welding classes and booth rentals in Orlando, Florida https://underground-metalworks.com 

• Weld Works Training Center: Accredited testing facility for welding certifications https://weldworkstestinglabs.com/ 

• Weld Metals Online: Welding test practice kits https://weldmetalsonline.com 

Save 20% On Related American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• Basic Inspection Concepts and Methods - https://foxly.link/tbRDjA 

• Visual Inspection: Tools and Techniques - https://foxly.link/QMlJmd 

• Weld Faults: Inspection and Causes - https://foxly.link/9T3dtc 

Guest's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: 

• @arcjunkiespodcast https://www.instagram.com/arcjunkiespodcast/ 

• @underground_metal_works https://www.instagram.com/underground_metal_works/ 

• Websites

• https://arcjunkies.com/

• https://www.underground-metalworks.com/ 

Connect with Beau Wigington:

●  Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

●  Email: [email protected]

●  WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

●  https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this episode, host Beau Wigington speaks with Guy Seguin, a welding educator at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Ontario, and creator behind Sewing with Fire Welding. Guy shares practical insights into side gigs welders can pursue, common projects to tackle for extra income, and essential considerations for successful side jobs.

Key Topics Covered:

• Most common side gigs welders encounter

• Essential tools and skills for successful welding side jobs

• Avoiding costly mistakes on projects

• Pricing jobs effectively and setting appropriate rates

• Liability concerns and how to manage risk in welding side projects

• Selecting the right welding equipment for side jobs

Memorable Quotes:

• "Any transferable skill is valuable. If you've got laboring experience or anything that can transfer over to welding, apply that first."

• "You don’t need a fancy fixture table; a concrete floor, a square, and a measuring tape can be just as effective."

• "Start slow, acquire tools, and build your skills and reputation steadily—slow and steady wins the race."

Save 20% On American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

●  https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M 

Guest's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: @sewingwithfirewelding https://www.instagram.com/sewingwithfirewelding/ 

• TikTok: @sewingwithfirewelding https://www.tiktok.com/@sewingwithfirewelding 

• Take Guy’s Free Course - https://foxly.link/j7xUUD 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewingwithfirewelding 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrvmeZtqtbTAaiXlrqwKfXw 

Connect with Beau Wigington:

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding

• Email: [email protected]

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

• https://foxly.link/Qj0VEa 

In this week’s episode, Beau Wigington chats with Brian Baer, owner of Baer Welding in Providence, Utah. Brian shares insights on transforming Baer Welding from a small residential-focused business into a company handling major corporate projects and high-end ornamental fabrication. Brian discusses the importance of company culture, strategic business transitions, and integrating automation to enhance efficiency.

Key Topics Covered:

• Shifting business focus from residential to large-scale commercial and ornamental projects

• Implementing automation to reduce errors and improve efficiency

• Importance and impact of company culture and social media

• Strategies for bidding projects accurately and profitably

• Training new employees on specialized alloy welding

Memorable Quotes:

• “Quality, quality, quality, and efficiency. Always thinking the next step ahead.”

• “Social media has improved our company culture and helped recruit the next generation of fabricators.”

• “Automation didn't get rid of people, it got rid of the mistakes.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Automated Layout Technologies: Manufacturer of automated layout and fabrication tables - https://www.automatedlayout.com/ 

Save 20% On American Welding Program Courses With WELD20

• Find the course thats right for you here - https://foxly.link/t8aJ0M 

Guest's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: @baerwelding https://www.instagram.com/baerwelding/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/baer-welding-co/ 

• Website: https://baerwelding.com/ 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BaerWelding 

Connect with Beau Wigington:

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [email protected] 

• WELD App: @beaudidit

Download the WELD App:

https://foxly.link/b7xDzp