When I was released from prison on March 8, 2006, I didn't have time to sit around and feel sorry for myself. I had already spent ten years of my life in a cell—from the age of sixteen to twenty-six. I was hungry for purpose, hungry for work, and ready to change my life.
Before I got out, I met a prison chaplain who sat on the board of directors for a welding company. He looked me in my eyes and said, "When you get out, I'll help you get a job—but the rest is on you."
That was all I needed.
I showed up that next week, excited, ready to work. A Christian man, someone I didn't even know, blessed me with a welding hood and a pair of steel-toe boots. That small act of kindness lit a fire in me.
Now, I won't lie—my first welding job only paid $8 an hour. I remember laughing with my mom, telling her, "You said I'd make $100 an hour like they said on those Tulsa Welding School commercials!" She just smiled and said, "Give it some time… you will."
Two weeks later, I got a $2 raise. I went from $8 to $10 an hour just like that. That raise showed me that my work ethic and welding skill had value—even if I was still new.
But there was still so much I didn't know...
What I Wish I Knew Back Then:
It's not just about welding beads—it's about attitude.
Showing up early, asking questions, being humble, and staying hungry.
The money will come, but the mindset must come first.
I was chasing dollars, but I learned to chase growth, and the dollars followed.
Blueprint reading and fabrication matter more than just welding.
Anyone can burn a rod. Not everyone can think, measure, and build.
Be teachable.
The best welders never stop learning.
Relationships matter.
That chaplain and that kind stranger with the boots helped me get started. Welders don't make it alone.
That first year, I made almost $40,000—not bad for someone who had never had a real job. But the real value was in the confidence I built, the lessons I learned, and the foundation I laid for the rest of my life.
I didn't start as the richest welder. But I had something better: a second chance.
Now I share my journey to remind others—especially young welders and those coming out of hard situations—that welding can change your life.
Welding saved mine.
The Rich Welder™: Master the Trade. Build the Brand. Create Wealth.
