Welcome to the very first bonus episode of State of the Arc, powered by Arc Junkies!
This is your fast, no-fluff update on what's happening right now across the welding and fabrication world.

In today’s episode:
🔥 Big push for Certified Robotic Arc Welding certifications
🔥 Why the skilled welder shortage is still hammering small and mid-sized shops
🔥 Key changes you need to know in the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – 2025 Edition

Whether you're running a shop, qualifying welders, or working on your own skills, staying ahead of the changes is key.
Tune in, stay sharp, and keep raising the bar.

Sources:

• AWS Robotic Welding Certification Program: https://www.aws.org/certification-and-education/professional-certification/certified-robotic-arc-welding/

• Welder Shortage – BLS Welding Outlook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm

• The Fabricator – Workforce Development:
  https://www.thefabricator.com/topic/workforce-development

• AWS D1.1 2025 Code Book Information: https://pubs.aws.org/p/3315/d11d11m2025-structural-welding-code-steel

If you liked this bonus episode, make sure to follow Arc Junkies on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss an update.
Got a welding news story you think we should cover? Shoot me a message on Instagram @ArcJunkiesPodcast — I’d love to hear from you!

This week on Arc Junkies, Jason is joined by Tim Lucas — Marine Corps veteran, CWI, metal artist, and AWS Section leader. Tim shares his journey from chasing motorcycles and metal shaping to working in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and high-end fabrication. They dive into the importance of understanding the "why" behind welding, how standard operating procedures can make or break a growing shop, and the critical role AWS sections play in building the next generation of welders. They also break down the realities of the ProCodes Act, writing WPSs, and the future of welding education. Whether you're just getting started or leveling up your career, this episode is packed with practical advice, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

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In this episode, Jason talks with Gavin Young from Baer Welding in Providence, Utah. Gavin shares his journey from sweeping floors at age 12 to working on high-end custom fabrication projects around the world. They discuss Baer’s evolution from a garage shop to a precision-driven ornamental welding company, their work on the massive Temple Square project, and how they train new hires with real-world testing and mentorship. Gavin talks about the balance of shop and field work, why TIG is king for quality, and how today’s young welders can set themselves up for success in the trade.

Follow Baer Welding 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