Been Lurking, Time to say Hi!

[seaplane]

I've been welding since 1975 when I started a 2 year high school/vocational school course. Made my first paycheck welding Boxcars in 1978 and started going to Tec Sch. at night to get into pipe welding. Certified on Pipe in 1981 on Carbon stick and shortly after made it to Tig on Stainless. I've had many great oportunities to work with big companies and small alike. Worked on the road and traveled looking for the pot of gold!
When I found the pot of gold it had a crack in it that needed welding, so I took care of that too!
Welding is more than just a job to me, It's been a lifestyle and a way to journey through life meeting interesting people and seeing some of the countryside that I would not have been able to see.
The thing about welding that I always liked was that you could do a job that not everyone else can do and you get a sense of satisfaction out of it that alot of jobs don't provide.
The last 2 1/2 years I had the oportunity to work in a school/test shop where I enjoyed helping people from all walks of life learn a new trade and also helped to place them in new jobs.Unfortunatly, That job just ran out on me due to downsizing operations, But when one door closes, another one opens, so life goes on! I realize now more than ever that most people that want to learn welding can learn it, But it's still not everyone's cup of tea.
From what i have read so far on this board, There are some great people here that give freely of their knowledge and experience. That is an invaluable trait!
I recently heard the term "Eternal Student" and I think that sums up what I would like to see myself as. I wanted to say hi and introduce myself and I look forward to reading and sharing all I can here.

[tanglediver]

Nice to hear from you! I always seem to read about stuff on these pages that is new to me which I would not have heard of elsewhere.

ttyl

[MarcP]

High all,
I retired in 2004,as a auto/truck mechanic at the P.O., got hurt. I'm just now getting back into home hobby working. I'm now an old guy but head is at @ 35 so I,m board and need to start over. I learned to weld in high school, engine man in the Navy. Worked for the 3 major auto communities on off for years, had my on shop for a while. Finally went to work for the post office as an auto mechanic, lots of heavy truck work, lots of lift gate work and welding. I,m a fair welder, (usedtobe). We will see how things go.
Here in N. Cal. you can't make too big a mess or someone will complain and then there goes the hood.

My biggest Questions are the cost of steel these days and who got dissent prices? Or any other ideas would be greatly appreciated.