May 22, 2026 Benchmark Abrasives

Matt Harding (Vermont Metals)

Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Matt from Vermont Metals 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: Matt Harding

Business Name: VERMONT METALS, LLC

Location: Dorset, VT

Socials: IG: @vermontmetals

Website: www.vermontmetals.net

Specialties: Architectural Metal Fabrication

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

I always have been a builder and maker. Went to art school to study ceramics. There was a metal fabrication shop and I never took a ceramics class. I've been professionally fabricating metal for over 25 years since graduation. Many of my ancestors were metal workers and mill wrights so I think it may be in my blood as well.

What keeps you motivated throughout the day?
The daily rhythm of work keeps me motivated. I enjoy the challenging process of metal fabrication and going through the motions of a project. Metal can be a bit slow, but gets faster with more skill, planning and larger equipment. A great stereo system helps also.

What is your favorite shop tool and why?
I love all tools in the shop. Some are more sentimental, some were career landmarks and some are rarely used but are indispensable. However, I have found that my Scotchman Iron Worker saves me time and my customers money every time I turn it on.

What's your favorite piece that you've worked on?
I don’t have any favorites. Actually I have a hard time remembering what I have made in the past. I focus on the process and all my attention goes to design, fabrication, and protecting the product for delivery/install. Once the work is successfully in place, I have already moved on to the next one. If I had to choose a favorite, it would be something that was a challenge or pushed the limits of my skill and shop’s equipment.

If you could have any job as it relates to question 1 what would it be and what would you do with that?
My job as a shop owner and fabricator is the best job for me. I enjoy the “ hunt” of finding work, have gotten used to the stresses associated with being self employed and frankly like spending
time by myself or with a small team. We are excellent at providing services and products to our customers.

What BA product is your favorite and why?

My favorite product that BA provides is sense of community and comradery associated with their product. As metal fabricators, we spend much of our time by ourselves or focused on our own project with blinders( or welding hoods). Its nice to know there are others out there with the same passion and that an new generation of fabricators are putting in the work.

What BA product surprised you in terms of quality - what about it set it apart from the competition?

The BA 5” PSA Gold discs are a great bang for the buck. Other brands are more than twice the price for virtually the same product.

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What tips and tricks do you have for us that might be different or eye opening for others to try with BA product?

Tungsten Carbide Tooth saw blades when employed with a track saw can replace laser cutters and plate shears. Eliminating the need for 3D models or heavy equipment.

If there was one person you could collaborate with - who would it be and why?

Being a metalworker is an age old trade. We have magical skills to solve problems for our neighbors and communities much like the old village blacksmith.Sometimes, not all the time, making that repair or providing a services free of charge or at a discounted rate it the correct way to collaborate with a person or an entity. I welcome those collaborations when they are warranted.

Do you have any advice for the next generation that you wish you had when you first started?

Metalwork is an passed down tradition and trade. Youtube and Instagram are great resources for learning but there is still a tactile disconnect with a screen. Working in a few different shops
is the best way to learn and excel. Learning what not to do may be more important that what to do.

Become proficient in a 3D Drafting program and Quickbooks. Providing detailed shop drawings to your customers will keep people honest while maximizing revenues. Watching the money will help you grow and/or focus your business away from the noise.

Utilize PPE.

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What are your future plans for your shop?

We continually employ more technology and make responsible capital investments. I love working with metal and continue to do so as long as possible.