Arc Junkies

In this episode of State of the Arc , I'm bringing you the top stories that matter: Infrared Welding Inspection : Exploring how thermal imaging is revolutionizing real-time weld quality control. Laser-Hybrid Welding : Combining laser precision with arc versatility for deeper, faster welds. Blue-Collar Wage Growth : Analyzing the 5–6% annual wage increase for skilled trades and its implications. En...

In this weeks episode I'm chatting in person w/ Austin Ross and Leo Martinez. Austin stopped by the shop and we decided to chat about their travels on the pipeline and the classes they're offering right now. In this episode we chat about training welders, welding on the pipeline, machine rebuilds, and access to information in today's day and age.    Check out Austins YouTube Channel Here Give him...

In this week's episode of State of the Arc , we dive into: ExxonMobil's proposed $8.6B plastics plant in Texas and its potential impact on welding jobs. OSHA's intensified enforcement on confined space violations and what it means for welders. The growing trend of welding schools partnering with industries to create direct job pipelines. The surge in welding opportunities within the agricultural a...

In this episode of Arc Junkies, I sit down with Sam Noland, Product Manager, and Kodi Welch, Market Segment Manager, from Miller Electric to talk all things innovation, welding automation, and the evolving demands of our trade. We cover Miller's customer-back innovation strategy, how welding codes like AWS D1.1 and D1.2 are influencing machine development, and the rise of co-bots and robotics in b...

In this episode of State of the Arc , we're diving into four major trends shaping the welding and fabrication world in 2025. 🔧 Topic 1: How rising tariffs are impacting steel, stainless, and aluminum prices — and what shops are doing to stay competitive 🌱 Topic 2: Why renewable energy projects are creating more welding demand than ever before 🧪 Topic 3: How mobile welder certification units are...

In this episode of Weld Wednesdays with AWS , Jason Becker talks with global welding leader Steve Snyder about the expanding international footprint of AWS certification programs. From developing training infrastructure in Africa and Southeast Asia to launching new standards for robotic and thermoplastics welding, the conversation explores how welding certifications are transforming global workfor...

In this episode, I'm joined by Nick Mcmillen and Ziad Bedran, co-founders of OWETEC Services, a welding education and consulting company that's rewriting the rules. We explore their unique paths from shipyards and engineering offices to launching a training center focused on orbital welding and high-purity applications. Nick and Ziad share their bold vision for transforming welding education, empo...

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...

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...

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-wor...

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 strate...

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 disc...

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 Podcas...

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...

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 mark...

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 asso...

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 E...

In this electrifying episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, join Jason as he welcomes the dynamic duo, Austin and Rodney Ross, to the studio! These seasoned pipeline professionals bring nearly three decades of combined experience to the table, diving into the rich tapestry of their welding journeys, from their humble beginnings to mastering the art of pipeline welding. Today, they're here to share th...

In this episode of The Arc Junkies Podcast, we welcome back Jason Marburger, founder of Fireball Tool, as he shares his journey in tool design and fabrication. Dive into the intricacies of creating tools that not only meet but exceed the demands of modern fabricators. Discover how Jason's passion for problem-solving and design innovation leads to the development of tools that are both functional a...

In this episode of Arc Junkies Podcast , I sit down with Dick Holdren , President of the American Welding Society (AWS) and a 50-year veteran of the welding industry. From his early days at Ohio State University to working on major military and industrial projects , Dick has played a critical role in shaping welding standards, education, and automation . We cover a lot in this conversation, includ...

In this months episode of Weld Wenesdays with AWS, I sit down and talk with John Douglas, the  Associate Director of the Foundation at American Welding Society. In this episoed we discuss the many Grants and Scholarships AWS has to offer for Students, Schools, and Educators. The application process is simple. Click on the Foundation link below to apply now.     AWS Foundation                      ...

In this episode of the Arc Junkies podcast, guests Jason and Miranda Chiasson share their experiences and insights from the welding industry. They explore the evolution of their careers—from mastering foundational skills like reading a tape measure to transitioning from hands-on technician work to full-scale business ownership. The discussion delves into how social media and viral marketing have p...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Todd Clouser shares his unique journey in the welding industry, primarily as the unsung hero behind the camera at weld.com. He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a key player in content creation without seeking the spotlight. The conversation delves into the evolution of weld.com, the impact of their content on the welding community, and memorable...

In this episode, I sit down with Dillon  to talk about his incredible journey in the welding industry. We start with his early days working on a farm, move through his experience as a pipeline welder, and dive into his transition to starting his own fabrication business. Along the way, we discuss the critical role of mentorship, the various career paths welding offers, and the essential tools and...

In this episode, I'm joined by some awesome guests as we talk about our time at Fabtech—sharing stories, networking wins, and the overall vibe of the event. We dig into how we all got started in welding, from entry-level jobs to where we are now, and the lessons we've learned along the way about mentorship, lifelong learning, and building a career. We also dive into what it takes to succeed in the...