As a gearhead, you get used to the idea that an aftermarket bolt-on part or even a weld-in piece billed as “made to fit” doesn’t usually live up to its promise. As a matter of fact, when a part even comes close to lining up as it should, it’s a cause for celebration. (Continue Reading)
Over the last few years we’ve been featuring young, blue-collar workers in our Still Building America blog series at thefabricator.com. Once in a while a story leaps out at me, and this is one of those. My wife Darla shared Melissa Gillespie Davis’ industrial paintings with me, and they stopped me cold. Themes of tradeswomen, … Read More
Whether you’re a mechanic, a fabricator, a machinist, or a writer, there’s no such thing as free time. Over the span of many years, you’ve spent long hours nearly every day of every week honing your talent, developing your skills, and gaining knowledge that only comes from such experience. Both the time it takes you … Read More
There is a sense of pride associated with working for yourself. The idea that you’re self-reliant, self-made, and answer to no one is enticing. It’s a romantic notion. We’ve all heard and read about the successes of individuals who make it work, from rock stars to actors and from artists to, yes, welders. But for … Read More
Looking for inspiration, then you must read this story. Escaping a violent relationship, Sharon Hall and her young daughter endured a series of moves and events that ultimately led to Sharon embarking on a welding career. Her inspiring story illustrates what can happen if you persevere, take advantage of opportunities, and stay focused. (Continue Reading)
While I want everyone to try welding, and I’d dig it if everyone then found that they loved welding, it’s not everyone’s bag. It’s why exposing kids at a young age to blue-collar trades is important, so they know what their options are. We’ve done a terrific job of removing any scarlet letter previously associated … Read More