Arc Junkies

In this episode of Weld Wednesday with AWS, I sit down with Kevin Johnson, host of the Welding Business Owners Podcast, owner of JAMW Fabrication, and mastermind behind the Fabricator Olympics. Kevin shares lessons learned from starting his welding business, the importance of outsourcing, developing standard operating procedures, and finding a profitable niche. We also dive into customer management, quoting jobs effectively, and maintaining work-life balance while running a shop. Plus, Kevin gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the growing Fabricator Olympics, including exciting new events for 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned shop owner or dreaming of starting your own business, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.   For more information on AWS Click Here Follow kevin on Instagram and Check out his Podcast Here

This week, Jason talks with welding engineer Kim Meszaros about the why behind codes and standards. Kim explains how ASME Section IX and other codes evolve—not as busywork, but as lessons learned from incidents, accidents, and new technologies. They discuss how welders should approach WPS compliance as more than a signature on paper, the role of safety in every change, and the human side of committees making tough decisions. The conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship over gatekeeping, reaching young people earlier, and creating better communication between welders and engineers. Whether you’re on the shop floor or managing inspections, this episode connects the rules to real-world practice and safety.   Find Kim on LinkedIn Here   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   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 Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods     Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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: https://bakersgas.com/collections/fronius-accupocket ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this Bonus episode of Arc Junkies, I sit down and chat with Wesley Doneth and Chris Bajek from Fronius USA to talk about some of thier new equipment hitting the market this year. If you didn't get a chance to make it to FabTech, you can get an inside scoop of whats coming your way in the world of welding technology from Fronius USA.   Check out Fronius' new line up here  Get your hands on some of Fronius' equipment here

This week on Arc Junkies, I sit down with Dante — a pipe welder and rap artist who’s built a career balancing two worlds. Dante shares his story of starting in the shipyards, transitioning into pipe welding, and how music became a creative outlet that resonated with welders everywhere. We dive into the realities of life on the road, failing and passing weld tests, financial lessons from traveling work, and his perspective on what it means to build longevity in the trades. Dante also opens up about his music career, how welding rap caught fire, and why he’s looking for the next chapter.   Checkout Dante's Music Here     Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   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 Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods     Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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: https://bakersgas.com/collections/fronius-accupocket ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this bonus episode of Weld Wednesday w/ AWS I'm chatting with incoming president Dr. Josh Burgess. Dr. Burgess started his career as a welder in High School and had an unquenchable thirst for more knowledge which has lead him down an incredible path as the incoming AWS President.  For more information on how you can get involved click Here

Alex Jordan may spend his nine-to-five building animatronics and puppets for places like Universal and Disney, but that’s just the beginning of his welding story. After hours, Alex runs his own job shop, dives into 3D printing as a fabrication tool, and shares his knowledge through YouTube and social media. In this episode, we talk about how 3D printers can transform a weld shop, the craftsmanship behind theme park projects like Raptors and parade floats, and how Alex turned a simple county fair project into a 15-year career. We also get into his custom electric pit bike builds, the importance of teaching what you know, and how community events like maker gift exchanges are fueling the next generation of creators. This conversation is full of innovation, hustle, and inspiration — don’t miss it!   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   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 Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods     Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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: Fronius.us ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

Fabtech 2025 is almost here! Jason sits down with Matt Rubin, Managing Director of Sales and Expositions for AWS, to break down everything you need to know about the biggest welding and fabrication show of the year. From conference sessions and networking events to the all-new AWS podcast booth, this episode will help you plan your Fabtech experience. Welcome to another edition of Weld Wednesdays with AWS! In this episode, Jason is joined by Matt Rubin, Managing Director of Sales and Expositions for the American Welding Society, to talk all things Fabtech 2025 in Chicago, September 8–11. Matt shares insider details on what to expect this year, including: The AWS booth experience, complete with a brand-new podcast booth, bookstore discounts, and live micro-sessions. Educational opportunities, from AI workshops to stainless steel applications, laser welding, and PDH/CEU sessions for CWIs. Live welding competitions, raffles, and interactive experiences like the Careers in Welding trailer. Networking highlights such as RWMA Happy Hour, Arcs & Ales at FatPour Tap House, and Fabtech Industry Night. Exclusive membership specials and code discounts you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re an educator, student, business owner, or industry leader, Fabtech has something for everyone. Tune in to get the inside scoop and make the most of your time in Chicago! 👉 Don’t forget to RSVP early for Arcs & Ales and check out fabtechexpo.com to register for the show and educational sessions.   Fabtech Registration & Sessions: FABTECH AWS Membership & Specials: AWS.org  Arcs & Ales at FatPour Tap House – RSVP Here RWMA Happy Hour – Register Here Fabtech Industry Night – Register Here AWS Welding Competition – Live competition in Hall B2, booth B21107 AWS Technical Sessions at Fabtech – Check out he classes Here 

“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: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   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 Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods     Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this episode of Weld Wednesday with AWS, I’m joined by Teresa Melfi and Josh Sullivan from Lincoln Electric to talk about the evolving role of automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, and artificial intelligence in the welding industry. Teresa shares insights from her 40+ year career—from being a certified welder to her work on waveform design and advanced robotic systems. Josh dives into alloy R&D and how Lincoln is leveraging AI to improve filler metal development for additive processes. We also explore how automation is improving ergonomics, broadening access to welding careers, and why these technologies aren’t replacing welders—they’re expanding the industry. Whether you’re new to welding or looking to future-proof your career, this episode is packed with valuable insights.   Attend FabTech 2025 in Chicago aws.org/fabtech Learn more about AWS AWS.org 

In this episode of Weld Wednesday with AWS, I sit down with Mariana Ludmer—Operations Manager at California Welding Institute and long-time AWS volunteer—to talk about how welding competitions are shaping the next generation of welders. We cover the impact of AWS-sponsored competitions on student confidence, career readiness, and community engagement. Mariana shares how her section in Southern California has built one of the most active and inclusive welding competition circuits in the country, and how these events bring together students, employers, unions, and vendors. Whether you're an instructor, employer, or student, this episode highlights the real-world benefits of competition—from skill-building and certification to job placement and industry networking.   For more information on how you can get involved with AWS, check out there website here

In this special solo episode, I’m taking a moment to talk directly to all of you—the listeners who’ve made Arc Junkies what it is today. I’ve been grinding hard for the past five years, juggling family, business, and content creation, and it’s time for a short reset. I’ll still be dropping Weld Wednesdays with AWS, but the weekly episodes and State of the Arc are on pause through July and August. In this episode, I explain why I’m stepping back, what’s ahead for the show, and how you can stay connected in the meantime. This isn’t goodbye—it’s just a much-needed breather. See you in September.   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods   International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com   Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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. Walter Surface Technologies https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0 ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this episode, I catch up with my friend and fellow educator Dusty James. We talk about life under the hood and behind the camera—raising kids while running a business, the challenges of creative burnout, and how teaching others has deepened our own understanding of welding. Dusty shares what keeps him inspired, how he builds community through YouTube and mentorship, and why progress is worth celebrating—even if it’s just pushing a broom at the end of a long day. We also chat about FabTech plans, cleaning the shop for mental clarity, and how passion for the craft keeps us going. Whether you're a welding instructor, content creator, or just grinding it out in the shop, this episode has something for you.   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods   International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com   Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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. Walter Surface Technologies https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0 ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this episode of State of the Arc, Jason Becker breaks down four of the most important trends shaping the welding industry in 2025. We start with the rise of welding simulation software — how it's transforming training and reducing material waste. Then we explore the impact of 3D printing on metal fabrication, including examples from defense, aerospace, and repair applications. Jason also highlights why soft skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability are becoming critical for career growth, before wrapping up with a deep dive into how welding safety standards are evolving — from smarter PPE to connected shop tech. If you're looking for a no-fluff breakdown of what’s changing in welding right now, this episode has you covered.

In this episode of State of the Arc, Jason Becker breaks down four major developments reshaping the welding industry right now. First, we look at the surge in government-funded nuclear projects and the increased demand for welders trained to ASME and NAVSEA standards. Then we shift to the revival of domestic steelmaking and how reshoring and infrastructure funding are fueling new opportunities for structural welders. In segment three, Jason covers the industry-wide push for low-hydrogen practices — from rod ovens to procedure control — and why welders need to pay closer attention to hydrogen cracking. Finally, we dig into ongoing supply chain issues affecting exotic filler metals like Inconel, Hastelloy, and duplex stainless, and how this is impacting bids, project timelines, and QA/QC expectations. As always, we close out with the Welding History Fact of the Week — this time featuring the precision TIG work behind the St. Louis Gateway Arch.

In this episode, Jason Becker sits down with Albert Moore, Jr., a true industry veteran with over 50 years of experience in structural steel, welding inspection, and nondestructive testing. From his early days as an ironworker to co-founding NAVSEA Solutions and Marion Testing & Inspection, Al shares insights from a career that’s shaped industry standards and trained countless professionals. They discuss welding certifications, NAVSEA procedures, inspecting some of the largest forging presses in the U.S., and Al’s work as an instructor for ASME. Whether you're a welder, inspector, or educator, this conversation is packed with knowledge you won’t want to miss. Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods   International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com   Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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. Walter Surface Technologies https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0 ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this episode of State of the Arc, I cover four high-impact stories shaping the future of welding and manufacturing in America. First, we break down the trends transforming global manufacturing through 2028—from smart factories to sustainability pressures. Next, we explore new welding challenges and solutions in the heavy equipment sector. Then, we turn to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and what it means for welding jobs across the country. Finally, we take a close look at how federal tax policies—and proposed changes like eliminating taxes on overtime—could reshape the financial future for welders and other skilled tradespeople. This week’s Welding History Fact celebrates the unsung welders behind the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge—an iconic American structure that wouldn’t exist without pioneering welding techniques in the 1930s.

Summary In this episode of Weld Wednesdays, Jason Becker and Daryl Peterson discuss the recent updates to the AWS D1.1 structural steel code, focusing on the changes from the 2020 to the 2025 edition. They explore various aspects of the code, including new definitions, clarifications, and the implications for welder certification and filler metal strength. The conversation also touches on design considerations and the differences between pre-qualified and qualified welding procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding these updates for professionals in the welding industry. In this conversation, Daryl Peterson and Jason Becker delve into the intricacies of welding materials, techniques, and specifications. They discuss the importance of high strength materials, the impact of gas selection on welding quality, and the critical nature of preheat and interpass temperature control. The conversation also covers welding procedure specifications, visual inspection criteria, and the evolving standards in the welding industry. In this conversation, Jason Becker and Daryl Peterson discuss the updates and clarifications in the welding code, particularly focusing on the AWS D1.1 code. They delve into various aspects such as inspection techniques, non-destructive testing, weld discontinuities, and the importance of engaging in code committees to contribute to the industry. The discussion highlights the evolving standards and practices in welding, emphasizing the need for clarity and precision in welding procedures and inspections. For more information on the AWS Click Here To purchae the latest edition of the AWS D1.1 Codebook, Click Here 

In this episode, Jason sits down with Eric and Stacia Mueller, owners of Edge Welding Cups, to discuss how they’ve built a family-run business that's disrupting the welding consumables industry. From humble beginnings in scientific glassblowing to producing high-performance TIG and MIG accessories used in critical industries, their journey is all about people over profit. Hear how their commitment to customer service, community outreach, and student engagement is creating lasting impact. They also break down their approach to custom cup design, laminar gas flow benefits, and the exciting new frontiers they’re tackling in aerospace, nuclear, and even plasma welding. Follow Edge on Instagram Here   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods   International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com   Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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. Walter Surface Technologies https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0 ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase    

In this episode of State of the Arc, we’re covering four of the most talked-about developments shaping the welding and skilled trades world right now: Battery-powered flash-butt welding is here — and it’s already changing the rail industry. A proposed $44 billion LNG pipeline in Alaska could unlock thousands of welding jobs across 800 miles of rugged terrain. Pipeline companies are opting to buy existing infrastructure instead of building new — what that means for field welders, inspectors, and contractors. Humanoid robots are stepping into real-world manufacturing and logistics — and the trades are next. Should welders be concerned or excited? Plus, this week’s Welding History Fact throws it back to 1948, when General Electric introduced GMAW and changed the game forever. Listen now and stay up to speed with what’s moving in the trades.

What’s up Arc Junkies, welcome back to the show! Joining me this week is Rex from the Handheld Laser Institute. In this episode, we demystify the tech that’s been flooding your feed—handheld laser welding. Rex breaks down what makes it revolutionary, the real differences between arc and laser, and why the barrier to entry is higher than most realize. We talk about procedure development, cracking challenges with aluminum, metallurgical insights, and how laser welding is shaking up traditional codes and standards. If you’ve ever been curious about laser welding beyond the TikTok hype, this is the episode you need to hear. Check out Rex's Website Here Follow Rex on Instagram Here Check out the Video From Nate Bowman w/ Rex Here   Arc Junkies Podcast: Instagram: @Arcjunkiespodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arcjunkiespodcast9253 Email: Show@arcjunkies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BKipEwR3uQXCmCjaEfNzo6w%3D%3D Arc Junkies Website: https://arcjunkies.com Arc junkies Merch: https://shop.threadmob.com/arcjunkie/shop/home Underground Metal Works: https://www.underground-metalworks.com/   Friends of the Show: American Welding Society Conferences Weld Summit https://www.aws.org/community-and-events/conferences-and-events/welding-summit/registration#regform Use ARCJUNKIES at Checkout and get a free gift at the event. Outlaw Leather LLC Outlawleather.com Instagram: @outlawleatherusa Use ARCJUNKIES for 15% off all in-stock leather goods   International Welding Bureau Internationalweldingbureau.com   Everlast Welders Instagram: @everlastwelders  YouTube: Everlast Welders         Online: https://bit.ly/37xJstI 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. Walter Surface Technologies https://hubs.ly/Q034MdgX0 ISOTUNES: Instagram: @isotunesaudio Online: https://shop.isotunes.com/arcjunkies10.  Use ARCJUNKIES10 at checkout and save $10 on your purchase