356. Who the Hell is Todd Clouser?
Arc Junkies
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 projects that shaped their brand. Todd reflects on the learning experiences gained through his role and the collaborative efforts that have contributed to the success of weld.com. In this engaging...
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355. Year of the Yeti w/ Dillon Hales
Arc Junkies
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 strategies for success in a small shop environment. Dillon and I share insights on what it takes to build a welding business from the ground up. We highlight the importance of starting small,...
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354. Navigating the Welding Industry: From Entry-Level to Leadership
Arc Junkies
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 trades—things like good planning, staying motivated, and surrounding yourself with the right people. We touch on mental health, the importance of using what you learn, and how networking can...
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353. Finding Your Center w/ Weston Spencer
Arc Junkies
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 just love hearing shop talk and life stories, this episode is packed with laughter and practical...
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352. Unveiling the Next Big Thing in Our Industry w/ Scott Witkowski and Juvi Calvo
Arc Junkies
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 importance of safety training, and how shared resources can save costs for welders and employers alike. Learn...
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351. Growing My Tribe w/ Chris Hale
Arc Junkies
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 supportive community of innovators. From the challenges of welding and restoration to the rewards of...
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Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS The Future of Welding Education with Tim Baber
Arc Junkies
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: Foundation page for scholarships & Grants: SENSE program: Learn about AWS Foundation scholarships, grants and graduate...
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350. Brazing in the Modern Age w/ Harry Erskine
Arc Junkies
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 music while working, highlighting the blend of creativity and craftsmanship in the welding process. In...
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349. Building Dreams, One Bend at a Time w/ Tyler Mullen
Arc Junkies
"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 professional welder, a hobbyist, or just love hearing about the science and craft of metalworking,...
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348. Welding the Divide: Empowering Students Through Vocational Training w/ Dorman Vic
Arc Junkies
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 critical role of mentorship. Dorman and I talk about how personal development and mentorship can...
info_outlineIn 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 working with advanced welding technologies at Fronius. From his beginnings on a farm, where he first encountered welding through his father, to his extensive use of YouTube as a learning tool, Phil's journey is an inspiring example of determination and continuous learning.
The episode delves into various welding techniques and technologies, such as stainless TIG welding, MIG welding, and the innovative processes used by Fronius. Phil discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching welding to others, his experiences with different welding equipment, and his plans for future projects, including teaching and custom welding work.
Key Takeaways:
- Learning Welding: Phil's journey from zero knowledge to expertise, emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, mentorship, and utilizing online resources like YouTube.
- Advanced Welding Technologies: Insights into the cutting-edge welding technologies and processes used at Fronius, including the use of AC polarity in MIG welding and the CMT (Cold Metal Transfer) process.
- Teaching and Mentorship: The importance of sharing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of welders, highlighting Phil's experiences teaching new welders at his previous job and his plans to offer lessons in the future.
- Welding Techniques: Discussions on various welding techniques, including stainless TIG welding, MIG welding, and the use of different torches and consumables for optimal results.
- Personal Growth and Passion: Phil's passion for welding and continuous learning, along with his personal experiences, such as his interest in blacksmithing and his connection to horses and farm life.
To learn more about Phil Garland and connect with him, visit his Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/theweldingphilosopher/
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