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

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