Think the trades are a backup plan? In this episode of Construction Mentor Podcast, Ike talks with Hunter, a Texas welder whose journey shows how hands-on work can become a career—and how people can rebuild after hitting a low point.

Hunter shares how he moved through oil field work, fencing, dumpster repairs, and other jobs before finding welding. He talks about learning on the job, working through mistakes, and why trying different paths can help you discover what fits. Ike and Hunter also discuss career growth in construction, the value of mentors, and why building a strong reputation and network can open doors.

The conversation also gets personal. Hunter opens up about his struggle with alcohol, the road to sobriety, and how fatherhood helped motivate him to keep moving forward. He reflects on accountability, self-forgiveness, and why a difficult past doesn’t have to define what comes next.

Whether you’re exploring a career in the trades, looking for a way forward, or rebuilding after a setback, Hunter’s story is a reminder that progress can start with hard work, support, and a willingness to try.

In this episode:

-Finding a career path by trying different kinds of work-Learning welding through hands-on experience-Building a reputation and making connections in the trades-Hunter’s sobriety journey and the role of fatherhood-Taking accountability without letting the past define you

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