I’ve been welding since high school, where I grew up in Battle Ground, WA. When I’m not working, I like to fish, hunt, play hockey and build aluminum boats, which I’m currently in the process of building. The challenge of pipe welding is what drew me to welding. Pipe welding is challenging every day and I enjoy that and the skill set you need to apply. The paycheck is nice, too. I have experience in aluminum, wire feed, stick welding, TIG, and brazing. I’d have to say stick welding is my favorite, but TIG would be a second close. Fun fact about me: I was the first student to come to Western Welding Academy. What I enjoy most about being an instructor is seeing the joy on students’ faces when it finally clicks. It’s great to see the progression from when they start to when they leave, walking them from struggle to success. They’ll remember that for the rest of their lives.