Arc Junkies

Arc Junkies is a Welding Podcast that is on a mission to help, educate and inspire the next generation of welders. Each week I talk to a new guest about their journey as a welder. Throughout the episodes, we cover different techniques, processes, variables, technical information and life lessons.

397. You’ve Never Seen Me Sober – High-Functioning Alcohol in the Welding Industry w/ Justin Merrill 02/24/2026

397. You’ve Never Seen Me Sober – High-Functioning Alcohol in the Welding Industry w/ Justin Merrill “You’ve never seen me sober.” For years, Justin built a respected name in the welding industry — sharp, disciplined, professional. But behind the scenes, there was something no one saw. In this raw and honest conversation, we talk about high-functioning alcohol use in the trades, what it looks like when success masks a problem, and the moment Justin realized he hadn’t been truly clear-headed in nearly a decade. We cover: What high-functioning drinking really looks like The culture of alcohol in welding and blue-collar industries Productivity after quitting drinking Identity, reputation, and vulnerability Financial literacy and long-term career planning in the trades Why not hitting “rock bottom” can be the most dangerous place to live If you work in welding, fabrication, construction, or any skilled trade, this conversation may hit closer than you expect. This isn’t about judgment. It’s about ownership. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, help is available: Alcoholics Anonymous – aa.org SAMHSA National Helpline – 1-800-662-4357 (24/7 confidential support) This is Blue Collar Talk — the real version. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: https://alnk.to/90Chh6D Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/40210110

396. Human Expertise & Machine Intelligence: Redefining the Inspector’s Role in the AI Era. 02/17/2026

396. Human Expertise & Machine Intelligence: Redefining the Inspector’s Role in the AI Era. Recorded live at the Inspection Expo & Conference (IEC), this episode captures a powerful discussion on the future of welding inspection and the rapid integration of AI and automation into the field. Jason Becker hosts a live panel featuring Amanda Young, Vice President of McNDT Pipeline, Ltd., and Lee Pialet, President of Pioneer Steel Services, Inc.. The conversation explores how digital weld scanning systems, AI-driven defect recognition, and code cross-referencing software are reshaping the role of the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). Topics include: • How AI interprets weld scan data • The reliability and limitations of automation in inspection • What skills remain irreplaceable • How inspectors can adapt without being replaced • The balance between craftsmanship and machine intelligence AI is moving fast. The real question isn’t whether it’s coming — it’s how we prepare for it. If you’re a CWI, welding engineer, fabricator, or industry decision-maker, this is a conversation you need to hear. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: https://alnk.to/90Chh6D Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/40119090

Weld Wednesday From the Shop Floor to the Code Book: Volunteering with AWS Committees w/ Bill Komlos 02/11/2026

395. Over-Welding, Under-Earning: The Real Cost of Bad Welding Habits w/ Nate Bowman 02/10/2026

395. Over-Welding, Under-Earning: The Real Cost of Bad Welding Habits w/ Nate Bowman Welding productivity is one of the most misunderstood topics in the industry—and it’s costing shops serious money. In this episode, Jason Becker sits down with Nate Bowman to break down the reality behind arc-on time, operator factor, deposition rate, and weld volume. Together, they explain why welders aren’t “only welding 11 minutes an hour,” how over-welding quietly drains profitability, and how small operational changes—like proper weld sizing or adding an extra grinder—can save thousands of dollars over time. This conversation isn’t about blame. It’s about data, efficiency, and building high-performance welding operations that benefit both welders and business owners. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: https://alnk.to/90Chh6D Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/40037740

394. America’s Skilled Trades Are Facing a Workforce Cliff — Brian Huff Explains Why 02/03/2026

394. America’s Skilled Trades Are Facing a Workforce Cliff — Brian Huff Explains Why In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker sits down with Brian Huff, founder and CEO of Midwest Technical Institute and Delta Technical College. Brian shares his perspective on the growing skilled labor crisis, why the U.S. is facing a massive workforce shortage, and how removing shop class and technical education from K–12 schools created the situation we’re in today. The conversation covers workforce demographics, infrastructure demand, energy production, AI-driven growth, and why construction and skilled trades remain recession-resistant careers with lifetime opportunity. Brian also explains how trade schools can rebuild the pipeline and why this problem must be treated as a national priority — not just an industry issue. This is a big-picture discussion about the future of skilled labor, education reform, and why the trades matter more now than ever. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: https://alnk.to/90Chh6D Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39874285

393. Speed Does Not Equal Skill w/ Alex McNamara 01/27/2026

393. Speed Does Not Equal Skill w/ Alex McNamara In this weeks episode, I sit down with Alex McNamara, a trades advocate, welder, rigger, and content creator who has become one of the loudest voices pushing for skilled trades education and tool literacy. Alex shares her unconventional path—from theater and set building to welding, rigging, and managing massive international live events, including work in Saudi Arabia. The conversation digs into why shop class disappeared, how that decision created today’s skilled-labor shortage, and what individuals can do locally to help rebuild trades education. We also discuss women in the trades, workplace culture, confidence on the jobsite, the realities of PPE and workwear design, and why being yourself actually makes you better at your craft. This is an honest, funny, and deeply important conversation about identity, work ethic, and the future of skilled labor. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: https://alnk.to/90Chh6D Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39872845

392. 50 Years Under the Hood w/ George Rolla 01/20/2026

392. 50 Years Under the Hood w/ George Rolla In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason sits down with George Rolla, a pipe welder, inspector, educator, and industry leader with over 50 years of hands-on experience in the welding trade. George shares his journey from welding in the Canadian Arctic and North Dakota oil fields to becoming an AWS Senior Certified Welding Inspector, Certified Welding Engineer, and founder of the California Welding Institute. Together, Jason and George have an honest, in-depth conversation about what’s broken in welding education, why instructor quality matters more than ever, and how poor training creates ripple effects throughout fabrication, inspection, and code compliance. They also discuss fast-track training done the right way, the realities of workforce development, the challenges of welding codes becoming law, and why documentation, ethics, and real-world experience still matter in a rapidly changing industry. This is a must-listen episode for welders, inspectors, educators, and anyone who cares about protecting the integrity of the trade. 🔥 Support the Arc Junkies Podcast Sponsors The Arc Junkies Podcast is made possible by the companies below. If you enjoy the show, please support the brands that support the welding community. Supporting these sponsors helps keep the Arc Junkies Podcast free and independent. 🎙️ Arc Junkies Podcast Website: Instagram: @ArcJunkiesPodcast YouTube: Email: show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn (Jason Becker): 🧢 Arc Junkies Merch: 🏭 Underground Metal Works Hands-on welding education for hobbyists, makers, and professionals Website: 🤝 Friends of the Show & Sponsors 🧰 BattlBox Premium outdoor, EDC, and survival gear delivered monthly Website: Instagram: @BattlBox Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Save up to 30% off your first BattlBox 🏛️ American Welding Society — Conferences Stay current on inspection, code updates, and industry leadership AWS Inspection Expo & Conference Event Info: Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free gift at the event 🧤 Outlaw Leather LLC Handcrafted welding hoods and leather PPE built to last Website: Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: 15% off all in-stock leather goods ⚡ Everlast Welders High-performance welding machines without the high price tag Website: Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES Offer: Free Nova Foot Pedal + TIG Torch with qualifying machine purchases 🎧 ISOtunes Certified hearing protection designed for jobsite communication Website: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Promo Code: ARCJUNKIES10 Offer: Save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39794195

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Leveling Up in 2026 – Where do I start and How AWS Can Help? Feat. Dr. Josh Burgess 01/14/2026

391. They Can’t Take My Education Away From Me w/ Josh O'Neal 01/13/2026

391. They Can’t Take My Education Away From Me w/ Josh O'Neal In this episode of the Arc Junkies Podcast, Jason Becker sits down with Josh O’Neal for a wide-ranging conversation on education, certification, and career development in the welding industry. Josh shares his journey through welding, inspection, and education, including his experiences pursuing credentials like CWI and CWE, navigating student loans and scholarships, and building quality systems that support AWS Accredited Testing Facilities. The discussion also dives into workforce development, credit-for-experience programs, and how industry certifications can translate into academic credit. Key topics include: Welding education pathways and career mobility AWS certifications, scholarships, and member involvement Quality Assurance Manuals and ATF setup Credit-by-exam and equivalency programs in education Balancing work, family, and professional growth Why education is something no one can take away from you This episode is a realistic look at the trade-offs, sacrifices, and long-term rewards of investing in your education and your career in welding. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Inspection Expo and Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/inspection-expo-and-conference/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39693225

390. Annual CrossPod with the Boys 12/30/2025

390. Annual CrossPod with the Boys As we wrap up the year, I’m joined by Kevin Johnson, Max Ceron, and Frankie Vargas for our annual end-of-year cross-pod roundtable. We talk candidly about FabTech, the real ROI of in-person podcasting, and why live shows don’t always move the needle the way people expect. Kevin breaks down what went into this year’s Fabricator Olympics, what he learned running a large-scale event, and why organization and efficiency matter just as much in events as they do in fabrication shops. We also dig into arc-on time, shop inefficiencies, and why welding is often only a small percentage of what a welder actually does day to day. The conversation shifts into the welding labor shortage and skills gap—where those numbers come from, whether they’re accurate, and why retention, culture, apprenticeships, and shop conditions matter just as much as recruiting new welders. We also cover why so many welders leave the hood for other roles, how benefits factor into pay decisions, and what schools and employers need to change if they want people to stay in the trade. This is an honest, unscripted conversation about where the industry really is—and where it needs to go next. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Inspection Expo and Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/inspection-expo-and-conference/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Fronius: Instagram: @FroniusUSA Website: ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39562110

389. Gas Junkies w/ Tim Kinnaman 12/16/2025

386. If You Want to Do It Long-Term… You Better Love It w/ Dusty James 12/09/2025

386. If You Want to Do It Long-Term… You Better Love It w/ Dusty James In this episode, I sit down with returning guest and long-time friend, Dusty James of Pacific Arc TIG Welding, for one of the most honest conversations yet about the realities of doing anything for the long haul — whether it’s welding, creating content, teaching, or building a business. Dusty and I break down what truly keeps people going in the trades and the creator world: passion, curiosity, and the willingness to push through burnout. The two share battle-tested lessons from years of welding and content creation, including graphic shop injuries, why safety training still matters, and the surprising truth behind videos that take days to make… but flop anyway. We talk about burnout, chasing excitement instead of trends, stolen content, algorithm frustration, writing textbooks, and why the work only becomes sustainable when you genuinely love it. This episode is a must-listen for welders, educators, content creators, or anyone trying to build something meaningful — even when the numbers don’t show it. Follow Dusty on Instagram Checkout his YouTube channel Checkout his Website and get his Textbook Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Inspection Expo and Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/inspection-expo-and-conference/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Fronius: Instagram: @FroniusUSA Website: ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39317660

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS The Skilled Trades Gap Isn’t a Myth — It’s a Warning 12/03/2025

385. Metal Art Is Just Weird Welding w/ David Madero 12/02/2025

385. Metal Art Is Just Weird Welding w/ David Madero In this episode, Jason sits down with returning guest and internationally recognized metal artist David Madero for a high-energy conversation about the explosive growth of metal art and its impact on the welding industry. They talk about how competitions like the Fabricator Olympics are inspiring a new generation, how Metal Shop Masters changed the visibility of metal art, and why companies like Activision, Diablo, and Call of Duty keep calling David for custom sculptures. The two dive into tools, techniques, laser welding safety, blacksmithing crossover, and the role of social media in bringing more people into both welding and art. David also shares behind-the-scenes stories, including his newest anime sculptures and upcoming maker-camp goals. Whether you're a welder, artist, or someone who loves hearing passionate creators talk about their craft — this episode delivers. Give David a Follow on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok @Madero_Co Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Inspection Expo and Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/inspection-expo-and-conference/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Fronius: Instagram: @FroniusUSA Website: ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39216045

384. Rope Access Welding: The Wildest Welding Jobs You’ve Never Seen 11/25/2025

384. Rope Access Welding: The Wildest Welding Jobs You’ve Never Seen In this episode, I sit down with Chad Umbel, co-founder of Rigging International Group (RIG), to explore the world of rope access welding, inspection, and high-angle industrial work. We talk about how Chad got into the trade, what rope access training really looks like, and why IRATA and SPRAT certifications matter. Chad breaks down how RIG hires and evaluates welders, how they test welders on rope, and what it takes to work offshore in places like Alaska—battling tides, weather, and extreme conditions. We also dive into rescue planning, safety culture, nondestructive testing, and the massive projects RIG is involved in, from stadiums to petrochemical plants to heavy construction. If you’ve ever been curious about rope access welding or wondered what it takes to work in some of the most challenging environments on the planet, this episode pulls the curtain back Check out RIG's website Give them a follow on Instagram Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Inspection Expo and Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/inspection-expo-and-conference/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. Fronius: Instagram: @FroniusUSA Website: ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/39162290

Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Welder to CWI Making the Leap Without Loosing Your Identity 11/05/2025

383. The Spark That Started It All: Tim Kinnaman on the True History of Welding 11/03/2025

382. Confidence Doesn’t Equal Competence: The Truth About Welding Wages 10/28/2025

381. Don't Quit w/ Jason Becker 10/14/2025

380. That First Minute Changes Everything w/ Ryan Eubank 10/07/2025

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Starting a Welding Business What I wish I Knew w/ Kevin Johnson 10/01/2025

379. “The Questions That Build Safer Welds.” w/ Kim Meszaros 09/30/2025

Fronius Friday from FabTech 2025 09/26/2025

378. The Story of the Bead Man w/ Dante Terrell 09/23/2025

Bonus: Weld Wednesday w/ AWS Dr. Josh Burgess Recorded at FabTech 2025 09/17/2025

377. From Puppets to Pit Bikes: Alex Jordan’s Welding Journey 09/09/2025

Weld Wednesday w/ AWS FabTech 2025 w/ Matt Ruben 09/03/2025

376. Known Flaws, Real Lessons: Building Better Inspectors w/ Jeremy Ring 09/02/2025

376. Known Flaws, Real Lessons: Building Better Inspectors w/ Jeremy Ring “Sonaspection has been keeping inspectors honest since 1980—by making flaws on purpose. This week, Jeremy Ring joins me to talk NDT, mentorship, and how controlled cracks build better inspectors.” This week on the Arc Junkies Podcast, I’m joined by Jeremy Ring, President of Sonaspection. If you’re not familiar with Sonaspection, they’ve been training inspectors since 1980 by creating controlled flaws in real welded samples. Their work keeps inspectors sharp, welders accountable, and industries safe. Jeremy shares his journey from NASCAR engineering to NDT leadership, and we dig into how flawed specimens help inspectors build the confidence to make the right call in the field. We also talk about mentorship, the future of inspection with AI, the global shortage of inspectors, and why proper training is critical to preventing failures that could put lives at risk. If you’ve ever wondered how inspectors sharpen their skills—or why “known flaws” are the best teachers—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: Email: LinkedIn: Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: Underground Metal Works: Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Pipeline Conference https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/pipeline/ Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders YouTube: Everlast Welders Online: 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. ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: . Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase /episode/index/show/arcjunkies/id/38031665

Weld Wednesdays w/ AWS Future-Proofing Welding Careers: Automation, AI, and Additive Manufacturing Feat. Teresa Melfi & Josh Sullivan 08/06/2025

Weld Wednesday w/ AWS "Community Impact: How Welding Competitions Are Shaping the Next Generation" w/ Mariana Ludmer 07/02/2025

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