Adam Holt (IG: americanweldingacademy)
Welcome to this week's #weldershowcase - we had the opportunity to sit down with Adam from @americanweldingacademy and talk a little shop.
If you would like to be featured in our weekly showcase (100% FREE) please send us an email to leo.benchmarkabrasives@gmail.com to get you scheduled in an upcoming week. These showcases 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: Adam Holt Business Name: American Welding Academy Location: Union, Missouri Socials: IG: @americanweldingacademy Websites: www.awaweld.com Specialties: Structural, Pressure Piping, and Fabrication. Director of Training and Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) for American Welding Academy |
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Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade (backstory)? And how long? Back in high school I had dreams and aspirations of becoming a carpenter, but the work was very unsteady and extremely weather dependent. So I switched gears during a 2 year vocational program and enrolled in a welding program. I needed something steady and consistent, and knew I would have that with welding. I've never looked back and can honestly say it has been one of the best decisions of my life.
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What keeps you motivated throughout the day? Watching students reach their full potential and go on to become successful leaders of the welding industry. |
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What is your favorite shop tool and why? I really like our Hydmech DM-1215 dual mitre band saw. It makes for quick and accurate work cutting material to size, and the dual mitre feature is outstanding. |
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What's your favorite piece that you've worked on? My favorite piece to date would be a giant stainless steel paddle wheel at the riverfront in Hermann, Missouri. The completion process was a collaborative effort, but it's one that has stood the test of time. |
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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? I am living my dream. Business owner and the director of training in one of the most premier welding schools in the Midwest. |
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What BA product is your favorite and why? We prep a lot of pipe and various welder qualification joints here at American Welding Academy and I'd have to say out of all the good products BA provides, the Jumbo Zirconia 4.5" 80 grit Flap Disc would be my favorite. |
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What BA product surprised you in terms of quality - what about it set it apart from the competition? Same as above, the jumbo flap disc is extra thick and provides even wear throughout the life of the disc |
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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? Big name, box brands are not always the best bang for your buck. |
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If there was one person you could collaborate with - who would it be and why? My team here at American Welding Academy. I personally believe I get to work each and everyday with the best of the best in the industry. George Tatum, Sean Flottmann, and Harrison Dye are outstanding welders and educators. |
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Do you have any advice for the next generation that you wish you had when you first started? You all are getting ready to make more money than you ever have, make sure you save it. The new truck and new boat can wait so save your money! |
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What are your future plans for your shop? We have future plans of an additional 100' shop expansion on the west side of our facility, and then to build housing on site to room our students who are attending from out of town and other states |
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A Note From Leo
Thanks for sharing your story with us, Adam! You guys are doing great work at AWA and look forward to seeing more of your graduates work on the gram.