Skilled Nation

Ep. 51 Episode 24: From Pipe Welder to 150K Followers: How Stan Sherwin Built a Welding Brand | Skilled Nation (Audio)

What happens when a second-generation welder combines decades of hands-on experience with the power of social media?

In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Stan Sherwin of SS Custom Welding, a custom fabricator, welding educator, and online creator who has built a loyal audience of more than 150,000 followers by sharing his craft, mentoring the next generation, and proving there's more than one way to master a trade.

Stan shares how growing up around his father's boilermaker career shaped his work ethic, why he chose the skilled trades over college, and how years of practicing after work helped him become one of the top welders in his field. He also reveals how posting welding videos online transformed his career, connected him with aspiring welders around the world, and gave him a new purpose: helping others succeed.

Whether you're considering welding school, already working in the trades, or interested in building a personal brand around your skills, this episode offers practical advice on craftsmanship, consistency, confidence, social media, mentorship, and career growth.

In this episode:

How Stan learned welding from his father and on the job

The realities of becoming a professional pipe welder

Why welding is both a trade and an art form

Building a welding brand on Instagram

Handling criticism and trolls online

How social media can create opportunities in the skilled trades

Advice for young welders and future tradespeople

The philosophy behind "Learn It. Earn It. Return It."

Skilled Nation celebrates the people, careers, and stories that keep America running. Because being a tradesperson isn't just a job. It's a way of life. It's a badge of honor. Subscribe today!

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