James Heath
Diversified Machine Systems
Colorado Springs,CO
1
Language
34
years of professional experience
Master Welder and Fabricator with extensive experience in MIG welding, TIG welding, aluminum fabrication, inspection, fit-up, and safe shop practices. Known for precise blueprint reading, welding symbols, and high-quality work across steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials. Experienced welding leader with a strong background in code-based fabrication, training junior welders, solving fit-up issues, and coordinating with machinists and fabricators to keep production efficient, safe, and on schedule.
Work History
Master Welder and Fabricator
5 Years 10 Months- Fabricated precision weldments using MIG and TIG processes to meet tight machine-build specifications in ASME 6G and AWS D1.1 code, including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, hot roll, and cold roll.
- Coordinated with machinists and fabricators to resolve fit-up issues and streamline build sequence.
- Interpreted blueprints and welding symbols to produce accurate assemblies for custom equipment.
- Inspected finished welds for quality, alignment, and structural integrity before production release.
- Adjusted welding parameters and techniques to improve penetration, consistency, and finish quality.
- Maintained welding equipment and consumables to support safe, uninterrupted shop operations.
- Guided junior welders on proper procedures, safety practices, and fabrication standards.
- Demonstrated commitment to quality craftsmanship by maintaining AWS certification as a Master Welder throughout career tenure.
- Reduced workplace injuries with thorough knowledge of OSHA regulations and implementation of proper safety measures during all tasks performed.
Lead Welder and Fabricator
9 Years 8 Months- Interpreted blueprints and shop drawings to execute precise structural and custom metal welds.
- Led welding crew to maintain safe, efficient fabrication workflow across active production schedules.
- Inspected finished welds for quality, alignment, and compliance with fabrication specifications.
- Trained welders on MIG, TIG, and stick techniques, safety practices, and equipment setup.
- Maintained welding equipment, torches, and consumables to support reliable shop operations.
- Corrected weld defects and fabrication issues using sound troubleshooting and repair methods.
- Consistently met deadlines by efficiently managing workload and prioritizing tasks according to project requirements.
- Improved overall product quality through thorough inspection of completed welds and addressing any defects promptly.
Welder Fabricator
1 Year 7 Months- Interpreted blueprints and shop drawings to fabricate weldments to exact specifications.
- Performed MIG and TIG welding on structural and sheet metal assemblies.
- Measured, cut, and fitted metal components using saws, grinders, and layout tools.
- Inspected finished welds for quality, alignment, and conformance to tolerances.
- Maintained welding equipment, hand tools, and workstations for safe operation.
- Coordinated with production teams to resolve fabrication issues and meet deadlines.
- Mentored junior welders on welding techniques, safety practices, and fabrication standards.
- Welded metal components in vertical, overhead and flat positions.
- Cut, grinded and bent edges of materials to be joined for snug fit using power grinders and hand tools.
- Inspected welds for accuracy and conformance to specifications.
Welder Fabricator
2 Years 3 Months- Adjusted fabrication methods to improve fit-up, consistency, and production flow.
- Maintained safety by wearing protective equipment, staying alert, and following procedures.
- Welded various connections with high-quality final results.
- Bolted, clamped, and tack-welded parts to secure components prior to welding.
- Prepared for assembly by positioning, aligning, and securing parts using tools such as jigs and vises.
- Cleaned material surfaces to remove dirt or excess acid using chemical solutions, wire brushes, and grinders.
- Avoided warping, shrinkage, and distortion by carefully controlling welding processes.
Lead Welder Fabricator
2 Years 4 Months- Interpreted welding blueprints and specifications to produce precise structural assemblies.
- Set up MIG, TIG, and stick welding equipment for varied fabrication tasks.
- Inspected welds for quality, alignment, and compliance with production standards.
- Mentored junior welders on safe practices, proper techniques, and job setup.
- Coordinated workflow with fabrication teams to keep jobs moving efficiently.
Welding Fabricator
1 Year 5 Months- Fabricated precision metal components from blueprints, drawings, and shop specifications.
- Welded assemblies using MIG, TIG, and stick processes for structural and repair work.
- Interpreted measurements and tolerances to ensure accurate fit-up and alignment.
- Inspected finished welds for quality, consistency, and compliance with fabrication standards.
- Operated cutting, grinding, drilling, and layout tools to prepare parts for assembly.
- Maintained safe work practices while handling materials, equipment, and hot-work operations.
Lead Welder Fabricator
5 Years 2 Months- Adjusted welding parameters to improve penetration, bead consistency, and finish.
- Performed preventive maintenance on welding tools and shop equipment.
- Resolved fabrication issues quickly to maintain output and reduce rework.
- Reduced project completion time, utilizing strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members.
- Demonstrated expertise in various welding processes such as MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored arc welding.
- Maintained precise measurements for accurate fabrication by utilizing blueprints and drawings effectively.
- Provided guidance and support for junior welders, fostering professional growth within the team.
Artillery Cannon Crew Member
10 Years- Led cannon emplacement, alignment, and firing procedures while enforcing artillery safety standards.
- Directed gun crew in ammunition handling, loading sequence, and misfire response protocols.
- Maintained cannon cleanliness, lubrication, and preventive care to sustain operational readiness.
- Coordinated fire commands with section members to ensure accurate, timely artillery execution.
- Trained crew members on artillery drills, safety procedures, and crew-served weapon fundamentals.
- Supervised weapon positioning, camouflage, and concealment during field operations.
Lead Welder Fabricator
6 Years 6 Months- Streamlined workflow processes through the development of optimized routines tailored to specific goals or objectives within each project phase.
- Maximized weld strength and durability by selecting appropriate materials for each job.
- Promoted continuous improvement initiatives within the workplace environment by regularly reviewing and updating procedures to ensure their ongoing effectiveness.
- Ensured optimal production efficiency with proper planning, coordination, and organization of tasks.
- Welded parts using arc, gas-shielded arc, submerged arc, and gas equipment.
- Welded in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
Education
Associate of Science - Welding
High School Diploma
Skills
Blueprint reading
Fit-up and alignment
Welding inspection
MIG welding
TIG welding
FCAW welding
Aluminum fabrication
Welding symbols
6G ASME and AWS D1.1 welding
Fabrication techniques
Weld repair techniques
Welding safety
Equipment maintenance
Problem-solving
Attention to detail
Teamwork and collaboration
Time management
Reliability
Languages
English
Timeline
Master Welder and Fabricator
Diversified Machine Systems
12.2020 - CurrentRead More
Lead Welder and Fabricator
Majestic Metals
04.2012 - 12.2021Read More
Welder Fabricator
Micro Metals
09.2010 - 04.2012Read More
Welder Fabricator
Advantage Manufacturing
07.2008 - 10.2010Read More
Lead Welder Fabricator
JlM Manufacturing
03.2006 - 07.2008Read More
Welding Fabricator
Vertec Tool
10.2004 - 03.2006Read More
Lead Welder Fabricator
Springs Fabrication Inc.
08.1999 - 10.2004Read More
Artillery Cannon Crew Member
USMC Reserves
08.1993 - 08.2003Read More
Lead Welder Fabricator
Trane Air Conditioning
08.1992 - 02.1999Read More
Pueblo Community College
Associate of Science from Welding
Read More
Centennial High School
High School Diploma
Read More