Ethan Holloway (KWI Class of 2022) is a union pipe welder with UA Local 614, running tough night shifts and high-stakes 100% x-ray work in Texas. In this episode, Ethan breaks down what most people don’t understand about welding life: union benefits, per diem, shot records, discipline, faith, finances, and what it takes to build a legacy—not just a paycheck.

If you’re 17–25 and wondering if you have what it takes, this one’s for you.

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.

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!