The Fabrication Lessons You Only Learn Once You’re on the Clock

EJ Naegeli moved across the country for a welding job, and two years later she’s building custom hot rods, race cars, and a whole new level of confidence. If you’re a welder starting a new job, learning fabrication on the clock, or wondering whether taking a big career leap is worth it, this episode gives you a real look at what that growth actually feels like. In this episode, you’ll learn: • **How EJ handled the first month** at Chuckles Garage while learning the tools, shop flow, and expectations of a professional custom car shop. • **Why fabrication confidence takes time** even when your welding skills are already solid. • **What EJ learned about speed, fit-up, and efficiency** when working on professional-level builds where time matters. • **How custom engine swaps and race car projects** force fabricators to problem-solve without a perfect template. • **Why working on your own project car** can build the confidence and reps you need to grow faster at work. EJ Naegeli is a metal fabricator and welder at Chuckles Garage in Northern California, where she works on custom hot rods, race cars, engine swaps, exhaust systems, chassis modifications, and one-off fabrication projects. Since her last appearance on WELD, she’s grown from preparing for a big career move to building her own fabrication style inside a high-level custom shop. Her perspective is especially valuable for welders who are learning how to balance quality, speed, confidence, and pressure in a real shop environment. Sponsors: Save 20% on American Welding Program courses with code **WELD20** at checkout at **AmericanWeldingProgram.org** Connect with EJ Naegeli: Instagram: @ej\_was\_here YouTube: @ej\_was\_here Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ejnaegeli TikTok: @ej\_was\_here_ Connect with Beau Wigington: Instagram: @beaudiditwelding Download the WELD App: iOS: App Store Android: Google Play If this show has helped your welding career, leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts takes 30 seconds and helps other welders find it. #WeldingPodcast #WeldingCareer #WeldingJobs #WELD #TradeLife #WeldingLife #Fabrication #MetalFab #WomenWhoWeld #CustomCars