Tamara Ward - Industrial Arts Institute (Beyond the Bench) Skip to content
August 8, 2025 Benchmark Abrasives

Tamara Ward - Industrial Arts Institute (Beyond the Bench)

Welcome to this month's #benchmarkspotlight Beyond the Bench series - we had the opportunity to sit down with Tamara from @iaiworks and talk a little shop.
 
If you would like to be featured in our weekly spotlight (100% FREE) and have a chance at winning one of our Grinder Hoods please send us an email to leo.benchmarkabrasives@gmail.com to get you scheduled in an upcoming week. And for those of you that take the time to share your story with us, we'd be happy to provide a free BA banner. These spotlights are intended to highlight your skill, your business, and your tips and tricks.  Most of all it's to have a little fun!

 

 
Name:  Tamara Ward

Business Name:  Industrial Arts Institute

Location: Onaway, MI

Socials: IG: @iaiworks  FB: IAI Works TikTok: @iaiworks

Website: www.iaiworks.com/
 
YouTube: IAI Works
What industry problems convinced you/your school to start or expand a welding program?
Right now, there’s a significant shortage of skilled welders and fabricators across the country. This is a real problem, thanks to outdated infrastructure and a growing demand in fields such as energy, construction, and manufacturing. As a result, companies are struggling to find welders who are willing to work, possess the necessary certifications, and have sufficient hands-on experience.

Which welding disciplines (MIG, TIG, flux-core, etc.) are in highest demand right now, and why?
MIG (GMAW) and Flux-Cored (FCAW) welding are popular for their speed and versatility in structural and industrial welding applications. TIG (GTAW) is favored in precision industries, such as aerospace and stainless-steel fabrication, while Stick welding (SMAW) remains vital for field and pipe welding tasks.

Welding fabrication is essential to modern infrastructure, fueling the need for skilled welders as industries like automotive and renewable energy expand. However, there's a shortage of trained welders, increasing their value.

Automation is transforming welding into a high-tech process, enhancing precision, speed, and safety while reducing labor costs and material waste. Modern automated systems, aided by AI and machine learning, can adapt in real-time to changes, improving overall efficiency.
  
 
How do you keep your curriculum aligned with fast-moving tech (think robots, virtual reality trainers, or AI-assisted cutting)?
We're integrating Red-d-Arc collaborative robotic systems, Lincoln Electric eCell robotic welding systems, and CNC plasma cutting tables into our training. We also utilize augmented reality welding trainers to simulate real-world conditions and reduce consumable costs. In collaboration with North Central Michigan College, we offer onsite training in CAD, CAM, and CNC lathe and mill techniques. Additionally, we regularly update our programs in response to employer feedback and industry trends.

What surprises new students the most about modern welding, compared to the “sparks‐and-smoke” stereotype?
The industry is seeking more than just welders; they need skilled fabricators, too. It's all about precision and technology, think robotic welding and CNC systems! Welding is more than just “sparks and smoke”; it involves engineering, math, and metallurgy. Plus, working on team projects and developing leadership skills are great perks!
How do you recruit high schoolers who might otherwise intend to pursue a four-year degree?
The Industrial Arts Institute (IAI) and North Central Michigan College (NCMC) offer exciting work-based learning and dual enrollment courses right here on campus. High school students can dive into hands-on training in Welding, Fabrication, and Machining, setting them up for advanced skills. We also collaborate with local schools for various programs and host career fairs, hands-on demos, and share alumni success stories. It’s all about gaining practical skills without the burden of long-term college debt!

Can you share a recent success story that shows the earning potential straight out of your program?
On our website, iaiworks.com, we have established a page specifically to showcase our alumni's accomplishments. Our success at IAI is evident in their achievements. They share their career experiences and even offer valuable advice to future welders. We call this the “Where are they now” series. I am super proud of the success our alumni are achieving, and it's hard to pick just one. Here are a few that we are especially proud of.

Sepp Pitt from Cohort 19, told us that, “The education and training I received at IAI equipped me with essential skills for entering the workforce. The training environment at IAI was always welcoming, and I appreciated the camaraderie among my fellow students and instructors. My training has opened numerous opportunities, allowing me to travel across the United States and work on exciting projects.” He began his career immediately after graduating from IAI, starting with R&E Automated, where he spent two years traveling. Currently, he is a member of the Ironworkers Union Local 25 and is employed by Gerace Construction in Midland, MI, where they specialize in welding and fabricating dam gates.

Doug Shrader from Cohort 17 said this, “Industrial Arts Institute taught me skills I use every day to excel above my peers. Skills I will use for the rest of my life.” He is the head welder at Husky Products in Atlanta, Michigan, where they produce a multitude of different pieces of equipment used in the recycling industry for Endura-Veyor Inc. They also produce various shelving units for Rack Engineering Division LLC. He supervises five welders in his position and is part of product refinement.

Ryan Shauger is a Cohort 10 alumni. He said, “After completing my training at IAI, I gained a significant head start in my welding career. The skills IAI equipped me with were instrumental in getting my foot in the door and staying ahead of the competition when it comes to securing employment. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I started working as a journeyman steamfitter for UA Local 85 when I was only 25 and have already spent the past several years traveling around the state of Michigan doing everything from welding water lines inside of a school to main steam lines inside power plants.”
  
 
Where do you see the biggest skills gaps in the next five years, and how are you closing them?
The advancements in automation and robotics within welding are transforming manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and precision. Also, the ability to read blueprints and apply fabrication math are critical skills in this field. Our training program addresses these gaps by engaging in real-world projects, providing certifications, and fostering corporate partnerships. To develop a skilled workforce to meet the industry's evolving demands.

Walk us through a typical week: which core skills are taught, and how much shop time vs. classroom time do students get?
The 40-hour Employer-Model Schedule operates from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday, with additional hours for practice available before and after classes. In terms of curriculum, 20% focus on classroom theory, including safety and industry symbols, while 80% is hands-on experience in welding, grinding, and fabrication. Over the 19-week program, you'll get 760 hours of practical training. Certification opportunities, including AWS testing, are available after completing each welding module, enhancing your resume. Throughout the program, you'll meet employers, recruiters, and union representatives who can provide career insights and improve your job prospects. Every Friday, you'll break from individual booth welding and are assigned to large-scale fabrication tasks, allowing you to refine your skills and get used to different machinery. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to step into your new career!
What certifications (AWS D1.1, ASME, etc.) do graduates leave with, and what pass rates are you seeing?
Our welding and fabrication graduates obtain credentials in AWS D1.1, D1.2, D1.6, D9.1, and ASME Section IX. Additionally, they gain qualifications across multiple positions, including SMAW, FCAW, GMAW, and GTAW, covering positions from 1G to 6G. Our impressive pass rates can be attributed to the rigorous preparation and hands-on experience provided throughout the program, ensuring that students are well-equipped for real-world applications.

How early do students start working on real structural or pipe projects, and not just test coupons?
At the Industrial Arts Institute, we launch our fast-track, 19-week comprehensive industrial welding and fabrication program with hands-on projects from the outset. Within just a few weeks, students dive right into structural and pipe welding, moving beyond testing coupons. We truly believe in the impact of skilled trades, not only in shaping successful careers but also in strengthening our communities. That's why we engage our students in working on community metal projects. It’s all part of our mission to prepare them for industry, while also showing the real value of project-based learning in welding and fabrication. Getting our students involved in these hands-on projects is crucial to our training model. The skills and experiences they gain prepare them to be tomorrow’s tradespeople and community leaders. Some of the exciting projects they work on include creating sculptures, trail gates, footbridges, benches, and other fabrications that serve the community. It’s a win-win for everyone involved! 		 
 
Safety moment: which PPE or best practices do you drill so hard that even alumni can still hear your voice on the jobsite?
For us, it’s all about the basics first as we often work with welders just starting out. We are sticklers for the golden rule of wearing their safety glasses and hearing protection at all times in the welding lab. It’s just a must! And we never forget about those auto-darkening helmets; daily testing is crucial to ensure they’re working properly. Keeping an eye on your surroundings is also super important—not just for your own safety but for everyone else too. And a big one is keeping your workspace clean. A CLEAN workspace is a SAFE workplace.

What abrasive products (discs, flap wheels, wire brushes) do students lean on in class, and why those over others?
Our welding and fabrication students typically work with flap wheels, grinding discs, cutting discs, and wire brushes. These specific products, especially from brands like Benchmark Abrasives, are preferred because they offer a great balance of durability, cutting speed, and cost-effectiveness. It makes sense to focus on tools that not only perform well but are also budget-friendly for educational purposes.
How do you teach cost-saving prep work (i.e., proper grinding angles or choosing the right grit) to avoid rework?
When teaching cost-saving preparation work, we emphasize the importance of selecting proper grinding angles and grit to minimize rework. We focus on efficiency and achieving a high-quality finish, which helps students save time and materials. It's great to see them apply these concepts successfully!

What role does simulation, or augmented-reality weld trainers, play in shortening the learning curve?
Simulation and augmented-reality weld trainers really play a crucial role in helping beginners get up to speed faster. They provide an excellent way for students to practice techniques without wasting materials, which is a significant advantage. Additionally, these tools can significantly boost confidence before making the leap to live arc welding. It’s also a fantastic way to engage young students at career expos and recruitment events for colleges and trade schools. It sparks excitement and can make welding seem a lot more approachable!
  
 
For mid-career fabricators looking to upskill, which modules can they take “à la carte” without a full-time commitment?
IAI offers a range of customized corporate training modules that cover all major welding processes for various materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. You can also dive into manual plasma cutting, CNC plasma cutting, and gouging techniques. If you're a welder or employer interested in certification, we offer American Welding Society welder testing and credentialing, led by certified welding inspectors. For those just starting or wanting to brush up on the basics, their Basic Welding course is hands-on and covers essential techniques. You'll learn about welding safety, how to operate standard equipment, power source setup, and get an introduction to gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW).
If you’re leaning toward a more artistic approach, the Ornamental Welding course might be up your alley. It’s designed for beginners and focuses on plasma cutting and GMAW (MIG) welding. You’ll have the chance to work on small projects and even create a final piece of metal art to take home. Just ensure that your project is something you can realistically finish within the class time! There’s a lot to choose from, so you can definitely tailor your learning experience to fit your needs and schedules.

What is your job-placement or apprenticeship stats within the first 90 days of graduation?
So, we are proud to say that our job placement stats are impressive numbers for recent graduates with a 90%+ placement. This success is largely due to our strong ties with the industry, including partnerships, onsite recruitment events, and a solid alumni network.
Which local employers’ partner with you on tooling donations or on-site internships, and how does that benefit students?
We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students, made possible by our invaluable partnerships! These collaborations provide us with essential professional counsel, industry expertise, and the necessary equipment, tools, and welding consumables, as well as real-world mentorship and job offers, to train the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Some of our partnerships include, but are not limited to: Benchmark Abrasives, Moran Iron Works, Purity Gas Cylinder, Lincoln Electric, Airgas and Red-D-Arc ESAB, Alro Steel, and Enbridge.

Do you track tooling costs per student? And how could a supplier like Benchmark Abrasives reduce that bill?
Suppliers like Benchmark Abrasives could help reduce those expenses by establishing educational partnerships with training institutes like IAI to provide bulk discounts. Additionally, offering durable products, educational kits, or on-site training opportunities would greatly benefit our students by preparing them for what to expect in the industry. It’s a win-win situation!
  
 
When alumni come back for advice, what’s the #1 abrasive or accessory they wish they had bought sooner?
When alumni swing by for advice, one thing they always mention is that they need a quality tool and consumables for cleaning the inside of pipes, along with a dyno file for smoothing out those tricky corners and seams. It’s funny how the right equipment can make such a difference!

If Benchmark provided a quarterly workshop, which hands-on topics: grinding wheel selection, flap-disc life hacks, or stainless finishing, would add the most value to your class?
If Benchmark offered a quarterly workshop, I think it would be great to dive into some hands-on topics, such as grinding wheel selection, flap disc life hacks, or stainless-steel finishing. Flap-disc life hacks, in particular, could be really valuable. Sharing tips on how to extend the life of our flap discs while also improving the finish on our projects.
Another interesting technique could be teaching how to achieve that “natural/ born that way” look, blending, and adding those linear grain patterns to our work.
And of course, we shouldn’t forget about stainless steel finishing techniques. It would be great to explore strategies for preventing contamination and achieving the desirable mirror polish.

 

A Note From Leo
Thanks for sharing with us, Tamara! You guys are doing great things at your school and we look forward to continuing to see the next gen of welders.
Filed in: benchmark spotlight, beyond the bench, beyondthebench, welder showcase
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