04/10/2026
2 or 20+ years ago (who’s counting 😅) I rolled into my first beginner welding position at a local fabrication company. “Mannn I can’t wait to learn all about welding here!” Whoaaaaa hold your horses young man…you need to learn how to make those lousy welds you’re about to make look presentable first! (They were right, I was green as grass) Which may seem like a funny thing to hear but a fab shop is a lot different than a structural or pipe shops. Most things need to look perfect, uniform finish, no sharp edges, etc.
Off I headed to the finishing department for what seemed to be an eternity. However, I couldn’t be more thankful for that time spent there learning how to grind, blend and finish metal to make it appear that it has never been welded before. I learned the most from an eclectic group of men, some that were on work release from jail, guys that eventually ended up in jail annnnd I guess a few boring guys that actually learned the trade years ago like I was currently trying to do 😂
A skill set that I still use occasionally in my day to day work. It also gives me an opportunity to quote jobs that a lot of people may turn away. I’m certainly not a pro but I can still hang with the mediocre best of them all.
Pro tip…WD-40 works incredible on a sanding disc to prevent clogging and helps cutting on aluminum. You’re welcome!
Keep chasing the dream! Cheers! 🍻 🇺🇸
