The art of welding

From nuclear submarines to lawn decorations

[MARCH 18, 2000]  What began as a high school course in welding, became a lifelong career for Don Bode, owner of Bode’s Welding, 201 S. Sangamon Street in Lincoln. For the past 15 years, Bode has built a business repairing, altering and creating a variety of products from boat propellers and tractors to industrial work tables and garden trellises.

 

Following his introduction to welding in high school, Bode joined the Navy in which he worked as a certified welder on nuclear submarines. After serving in the Navy for four years, Bode joined the workforce. When he was laid-off from his job, Bode decided to start his own welding business with the help of his high school welding instructor, Richard Alexander.  The business grew, and in 1991 Alexander decided to pursue other ventures and Bode began working solo.

   
        [Don Bode poses with his newest creations]


    His work activities vary on a daily basis, an aspect Bode enjoys. He services a wide market of clients, such as farmers, industries and the general public. Due to the many different types of services he provides, Bode explains that he is on call 24-hours-a-day. This is also because the work doesn't always come to him—he often is needed to go on site for repair projects that simply cannot be brought into his shop. "I have fun [welding]," he explains. "It's a challenge." And Bode likes a challenge. "Don't tell me I can't do something," he says. "I'll do my best to fix it."

The diversity of his work can range from repairing or creating a fence or handrail to working on a semi that has broken down on the freeway. Bode explains that in order to be good at his profession, it is necessary to be diversified. He adds, "You have to know your metals and be able to asses the quickest and easiest way" to complete a project.

 


Bode said that there are some disadvantages to owning a business, including keeping up with the necessary paperwork, such as paying the bills and keeping the books. But overall, he really enjoys being his own boss. "The independence is nice," he explains.
    Although Bode works 50-plus hours each week, when he has spare time he enjoys making crafts such as garden decorations. Last year, he attended seven shows, and has plans to attend more arts and crafts shows this year. He says that he's not really into making crafts for the money, it's the people. "I don't really care if I even sell anything," he explains. "I just enjoy talking to different people."

Having a good reputation with the public is very important, says Bode. He attributes much of his business growth to word-of-mouth. "You have to be trustworthy," he says. "[And] if it can't be fixed, this is the place to go."

Bode's Welding is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 


[Bode hard at work in his welding 
shop located at 201 North Sangamon in Lincoln]

[Katherine Heller]   

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