In this episode of The Welding Business Owners Podcast, I sit down with David from DTB Fab—a guy running a successful welding business while still working a full-time job… actually two full-time jobs.

We break down how he went from fixing his own car because he couldn’t afford a body guy… to becoming the go-to shop for anything from bikes and cars to structural work.

If you’re trying to start or grow a welding business on the side, this episode is packed with real-world lessons you won’t hear anywhere else.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to start a welding business with little money
• How to balance a full-time job, family, and side work
• Why confidence (not skill) holds most welders back
• The biggest mistakes that cost time and money early on
• How word-of-mouth can build your entire business

Who This Is For:

• Welders who want to start a side hustle
• Fabricators trying to grow their business
• Anyone stuck between a job and going all-in
• Skilled tradesmen who want more income and freedom

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to David and DTBFab

02:39
The Journey of a Plumber and Welder

03:12
Balancing Two Full-Time Jobs

06:03
From Passion to Business: The LLC Journey

09:16
Learning Through Experience: The Early Days

14:33
Favorite Projects: Sheet Metal Shaping

16:37
Word of Mouth and Business Growth

18:27
Balancing Family and Work Life

21:35
Influences and Mentorship in Career Development

28:09
Embracing Manual Skills and Learning from Experience

33:44
Navigating the Challenges of Business and Confidence

46:58
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Confidence and Business Acumen

55:56
Advice for Aspiring Craftsmen: The Value of Listening and Learning

Keywords

welding business, welding side hustle, how to start a welding business, fabrication business, welding entrepreneur, welding shop, make money welding, welding jobs, welding tips, welding podcast