"Welding is a skill, but it’s also an art and everyone learns it differently. I focus on hands-on learning, real-world techniques, and keeping things light-hearted. Mistakes are part of the process, and I make sure students feel confident, supported, and ready to tackle any challenge."
What led you to work for PETA?
Hey there! I’m a welder with 25 years under the hood, most of that spent in the shipbuilding world, crafting everything from sleek ferries to rugged naval vessels. I’m fluent in MIG, TIG, and MMA welding (basically, if it sparks, I speak its language)
What is your role at PETA and what drives you to do what you do?
My role now is as a welding instructor. While it’s a shift from the shop floor to the classroom, the heart of it is still the same, building things that last. What drives me is the chance to pass on the skills that gave me a career, a sense of pride, and a way to support my family. I’ve burned rods in shipyards, fabrication shops, and out in the field, and now I get to help the next generation of welders learn not just the techniques, but the mindset it takes to do the job right. It’s about precision, patience, and pride in your work. I respect anyone who’s driven by purpose, and for me that purpose is helping others build their future, one weld at a time.
What knowledge and experience do you draw upon for your role?
With over 25 years of hands-on experience, mostly in the shipbuilding industry, I am a seasoned welder known for precision, reliability, and a passion for the craft. Skilled in MIG, TIG, and MMA welding processes, I have contributed to the construction and repair of countless vessels, from commercial ships to naval projects, always ensuring the highest standards of safety and durability.
How do you approach your role on a day-to-day basis? What skills are required?
Every day I walk into the workshop with the mindset that I’m not just teaching welding, I’m shaping careers. I start by making sure the environment is safe, organized, and ready for hands-on learning. Safety is non-negotiable, and I lead by example so students understand its importance from the start.
I tailor my teaching to the group I’ve got some are fresh out of school, others are retraining so I adjust my pace and style to meet them where they are. I mix theory with practice, making sure they understand not just how to weld, but why each technique matters. I encourage questions, celebrate small wins, and give honest feedback to help them improve.
I also make time to share real-world stories from my welding days, the tough jobs, the mistakes, the proud moments, because it helps them connect the dots between the classroom and the job site. My goal is to build their confidence, their skillset, and their work ethic. If they leave my class ready to work safely, think critically, and take pride in their welds, then I’ve done my job.
What is your teaching style?
Welding is a skill, but it’s also an art and everyone learns it differently. I focus on hands-on learning, real-world techniques, and keeping things light-hearted. Mistakes are part of the process, and I make sure students feel confident, supported, and ready to tackle any challenge. If you’re having fun, you’re learning, and that’s the spark I aim to ignite
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Outside of work, my biggest passion is spending quality time with my wife and our 7-year-old son. Whether it's a walk in the park, a movie night, or just chatting over dinner, those moments mean everything to me. Lately, music has become a big part of our lives. My son and I are learning piano together, which has been both fun and rewarding. It’s amazing to share that journey with him, watching him pick up melodies and rhythms while I’m learning right alongside him. It’s not just about the music it’s about bonding, growing, and creating something meaningful together as a family
What are your personal values, and what is important to you?
For me, honesty’s always been the best policy. I’d rather be upfront and real than sugar-coat things. I also take timekeeping seriously, if I say I’ll be somewhere or do something, I stick to it. That said, I don’t take life too seriously. I think it’s important to have a laugh, especially when things get stressful. Whether I’m at work or at home, I try to keep things light, stay grounded, and enjoy the moment. A good sense of humour goes a long way, and I reckon it makes everything from welding to piano practice with my son a lot more fun