The Fabricator Podcast

• Applying science to abrasives for better welder productivity

  In this episode of The Fabricator Podcast, guest host Nate Bowman (aka Weld Scientist) joins us as we speak with 3M abrasives application engineers Matt King and Kaeleigh Wilkins about the everyday realities of grinding, from why welders depend on it to how newer abrasive technology is improving weld prep and finishing. They also discuss surface-prep tools that remove coatings without damaging the base metal and why shops may want to rethink the abrasives they’ve used for years. We also touch on the third season of Clash of the Grinders, the student competition that’s helping bring new welders into the trade. Nate also talks about his involvement with SparkForce manufacturing camps. This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

  --------  

  39:34

  --------

  39:34
• Rethinking welder training with Marc Levin of Welder Underground

  Marc Levin joins us to talk about the Welder Underground, the New York City–based apprenticeship program he and his wife, Adina, launched in 2024 to help young people enter welding and fabrication. Supported by ESAB, the program builds technical skills, work habits, and real-world experience through large-scale public art projects like the Rappin’ Max Robot. Marc explains why hands-on, creative training is essential for bringing new talent into the trades. This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

  --------  

  45:12

  --------

  45:12
• The story behind Knapheide's 175-plus years of truck manufacturing

  Discover how Knapheide, a sixth-generation family-owned company in Quincy, Ill., evolved from building wagons in 1848 to designing highly customized service trucks today. Greg Schutte, director of fabrication, shares insights on managing over 2 million SKUs, modernizing the shop floor with automation and precision equipment, and attracting a new generation of problem-solving talent. Learn how a company with deep roots in agriculture became a leader in custom fabrication, all while maintaining rapid lead times and embracing innovation. This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago in partnership with Salvagnini America. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

  --------  

  34:12

  --------

  34:12
• Knowing when to pivot a fabrication business with John Axelberg

  CEO John Axelberg has led General Stamping & Metalworks for more than 30 years, guiding the century-old metal manufacturer, headquartered in South Bend, Ind., through major shifts in technology and industry demands in metal fabrication. He joins The Fabricator Podcast to discuss the company’s evolution and what it takes to stay relevant in modern manufacturing. This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago in partnership with Paperless Parts. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

  --------  

  43:32

  --------

  43:32
• Carrying the torch for oxy-fuel metal art with David Madero

  Renowned Mexico-based metal artist David Madero joins The Fabricator Podcast to talk about honoring the legacy of his father and artist, (Rogelio Madero), his love of working with oxyacetylene to create his distinctive welded sculptures, paying it forward by teaching his techniques, advice for other artists for working with welding companies to become brand ambassadors, and more. This episode was recorded at FABTECH 2025 in Chicago. Email us at [email protected] with any comments, questions, or suggestions.

  --------  

  45:21

  --------

  45:21

More Business podcasts

Trending Business podcasts

About The Fabricator Podcast

The Fabricator Podcast: Podcasts in Family