Post by Caterpillar Inc.

Luke J. has spent nearly nine years building his welding career at Caterpillar, growing from an entry-level welder to a Fabrications Trainer in our Athens, GA facility, now helping others strengthen their skills, confidence and craft. Luke’s welding journey started early. Raised in a hands-on family, he first learned to weld at age 10, then continued building his skills through technical training and on the job experience. Within his first year at Caterpillar, he earned his welder two certification and spent the next several years moving across the tractor line, expanding his expertise and becoming a trusted source for quality and consistency. Today, Luke’s work is still rooted in craftsmanship and pride. He sees every weld as a mark of accountability, especially knowing the longevity of Caterpillar machines. “Your weld is like your signature. Every welder out there can point out their weld on something,” he said. “We’ve got Cat dozers from 100 years ago still rolling around. Somebody’s weld is on that machine.” As a trainer, Luke is also helping shape the future of the trade through Caterpillar’s Welder Development Program, designed to take people with little to no welding experience and build them into skilled welders. And when it comes to why welding will always matter, he keeps it simple: “You can’t automate a repair,” he explained. “You need human eyes and human judgment. There will always be a need for welders.” Find opportunities to join our talented team of makers: careers.caterpillar.com #iAmCaterpillar