Wil Smiley (IG: @_grumpy_gramps_
Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Wil from @_grumpy_gramps_ 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. 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!
Enjoy and Grind On!
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Name: Wil Smiley
Business Name: Advantage Engineering Location: Greenwood IN
Specialties: Mig Welding and Fabrication
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Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade? And how long? I've been Welding for around 20 + years. When I first started out it was all about the money and the money is good but the more I've done it the more I found my place in life. Welding keeps me focused and allows me to be me. I've been able to learn different welding abilities and I've met some great people thru the years. I can't think of a better trade to be in.
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What keeps you motivated throughout the day? The next weld. I'm always trying to make my next weld better. |
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What is your favorite shop tool and why? My Dewalt grinder with a Benchmark Abrasives grinding wheel or flap pad. I have a lot of pipe to grind and bevel thru the week and nothing holds up better. |
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What's your favorite piece that you've worked on? I made some huge Stainless steel tanks for Goya Foods this year that were awesome to build. |
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If you could have any job as it relates to question 1 what would it be and what would you do with that? Honestly I'm doing my dream job every day. Welding fits me down to a T. I know I wouldn't be happy doing anything else. |
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What BA product is your favorite and why?
The Angled Flap pads are fantastic and I use them daily. |
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What BA product surprised you in terms of quality - what about it set it apart from the competition?
Again the Flap pads. They last longer than other brands and they don't fall apart. You can really give them a beating and they take the abuse. 10 out of 10 quality.
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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?
Well I save all my grinding wheel when they get worn and are down to a small diameter. And they come in handy for those hard to get to tight spots where a larger new wheel won't reach. Just make sure you inspect them prior to use. |
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If there was one person you could collaborate with - who would it be and why?
Dabswellington The guy is a Beast! He's the main reason I got on Instagram. The things he can do with metal and a tig torch are outrageous and I am positive I'm no way in his league but it would be fantastic to learn a few tricks and tips. |
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Do you have any advice for the next generation that you wish you had when you first started?
Always listen to the old timers. They have knowledge and you want it. Just cause they ain't flashy don't me they ain't good at what they do. |
A Note From Leo
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Wil! Finding a job that lets you be you is hard to come by at times but it's great seeing that you've found your place.