FABTECH keynotes not only bring you business leaders, and sporting legends. They also showcase individuals from our own field that have risen to greatness. Take the case of Steve Darnell, founder of Welder Up, a complete custom fabrication shop specializing in one-of-a-kind vehicles located in Las Vegas.
He began in his family’s steel company where he learned to weld and fabricate at an early age. He harnessed his passion for cars when he formed his own fabrication shop. Fame came once he unveiled his custom D-Rod twin-turbo, 12-valve, 1,000 hp diesel engine. The car world became fascinated by his unique builds. That led to his Discovery Channel TV show known as Vegas Rat Rods. His magnificent creations were soon featured in magazines and media around the globe. He has even crated post-apocalyptic set designs and vehicles for a Five Finger Death Punch music video and other forms of entertainment content.
Next up, he decided to channel his years of technical skill and creativity into the field of learning. You can find his online course at www.welder101.com. He brings that passion to teach others to FABTECH 2026. Attend his keynote address: The Creative Edge: How Craftmanship and Grid Drive Fabrication.” That is where Steve will pass on his secrets to success to those in welding, fabrication, forming, and finishing.
Steve is renowned for turning scrap into one‑of‑a‑kind builds. Those attending will learn about his “do it right the first time” philosophy and why it is so vital to every project. Further, he will explain how to create and lead a team – one that thrives even when the pressure builds. This keynote will offer tips on how to push through any business, financial, or technical limitations. If you want help in motivating the next generation, be sure to attend this talk.
Steve has plenty of business, career, and welding advice to impart. Not the least of it is this gem:
"Don't mess with a guy with a blowtorch in his hand."
The keynotes at FABTECH 2026 kick off each day. But the show has so much more to offer: more than 180+ expert-led sessions and workshops across 12 tracks. These conference sessions will equip you with practical, real-world insights to boost productivity, close workforce gaps, optimize operations, and drive measurable business results across processes like bending, laser, cutting, stamping, finishing, and welding. In addition, our massive exhibition space is where you can visit 1,400 exhibitors across 700,000+ square feet of the latest manufacturing technology — all in one place.
Register for FABTECH 2026 today.
