July 17, 2025 Benchmark Abrasives

Berkley McFarlane (@thelowkey_welder)

Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Berkley from @thelowkey_welder 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: Berkley McFarlane

Location: Kountze, TX

Socials: IG: @thelowkey_welder

Specialties: Highschool Welder

Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade? And how long?

I started my freshman year of HS in Ag mechanics, I knew I loved to work but I wasn’t sure if I loved to show in the agricultural field. I would see my schools welding students winning prizes and working hard throughout the year and thought, that is what I want to do. The next year I transferred to my welding class, and I loved every bit of work they gave me and I have been doing it ever since. I’ve been welding for 3 years now.

What keeps you motivated throughout the day?
I love being a female in the trade because we get so much respect and support from everyone, I love every bit of work people throw at me.

What's your favorite piece that you've worked on?
It’s not necessarily a piece of work but I competed in the Ironwomen Welding competition and my team and I won the build off out of 30 other teams and the next day I, out of 60 other competitors, won 1st place in the underwater welding portion.

What are your future plans for your shop?

My future plans are after my senior year to apply to TSTC Waco for their 2 year degree, I then want to apply to The Ocean Corporation and get into underwater welding and later become a CWI.

A Note From Leo

Thanks for sharing your story with us, Berkley! Keep absorbing that knowledge from other welders and best of luck with underwater welding!!