Behind The Hood: The Welding Journey

From $15 an Hour to Financial Freedom

In this episode of the KWI Podcast, we sit down with Dylan Lacey, a 2018 Kentucky Welding Institute graduate who traveled from Rome, New York to Kentucky chasing something bigger than a paycheck. Dylan opens up about his journey—from growing up around hard farm work, struggling with discipline and direction as a teenager, working long hours for limited pay, and ultimately making the decision to bet on himself and attend KWI. What followed was a transformation built on work ethic, humility, faith, and relentless consistency. This conversation goes far beyond welding. It’s about earning your sleep, choosing discipline over comfort, and building a life with purpose—on and off the jobsite. Whether you’re considering a career in the skilled trades, currently in welding school, or already in the field, this episode delivers real-world perspective from someone who lived it.

Welding After the Air Force

In this episode of the Kentucky Welding Institute: Behind the Hood, with the Grads, as we sit down with Andreas Kariotis, a man with a remarkable journey from the Air Force to becoming a skilled welder. Born and raised in New Gloucester, Maine, Andreas shares his experiences growing up in a close-knit community, his time serving in the Air Force, and the transition to a new career in welding. Discover the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, and gain insights into the world of welding and the importance of perseverance. Whether you're interested in welding, military life, or personal growth, this episode offers something for everyone. Don't miss out on Andreas's inspiring story!

First Female on the 100K Wall: Rhiannon Howard’s Story from Welder to Business Owner

Graduate Rhiannon Howard joins us to share her journey with welding and her experience in the field. Rhiannon was the first female on the KWI 100K Wall — and now she turned her welding career into her own business, Double L Metal Works. Rhiannon talks about hitting the road after graduation, the skills she built along the way, and how those same skills now fuel her custom metalwork, from jewelry to handcrafted belt buckles. https://www.doublelmetalworks.com/

With the Grads: Grossing $3,950/Week at 18 Years Old

Recent KWI graduate, Landon Earlywine, is on his first job in Logansport, Indiana — already grossing $3,950 a week in a local fab shop. In this episode, Bobby and Landon dive into his welding journey, what the transition from school to the field has looked like, his current setup in Indiana, and where he plans to take his career next.

79 - This Welder Made $100K+ Right After School!

We talk to Braden, a welder who made over $100K right after welding school. Learn about his journey and success in the welding industry!Watch Braden and I tackle a monster coupon. We discuss everything from welding techniques, career experiences, and challenges faced on the job, to insights on how to save and invest wisely as a young welder. Learn More: https://weld.kwi.us/podcastVisit KWI's YouTube channel and access a ton of free content about forging a successful welding career: https://kwi.us/youtubeTEXT OR CALL US: (606) 291-2787