For 16 years, Vocational Training Institute has been focused on delivering quality hands-on education in the skilled trades, and we’re excited to promote an incredible new partnership for 2026. VTI has teamed up with Steve Darnell to take welding to another level by bringing his WelderUp workshops to our Phoenix campus.
Steve Darnell and WelderUp
Steve Darnell is famed both for his success on the Discovery Channel hit series Vegas Rat Rods and as the creative genius behind WelderUp, the Las Vegas-based rat rod and fabrication shop. Darnell learned to weld and fabricate at an early age, and through WelderUp, he took his passion for cars to the next level. WelderUp became known for its eye-catching rides through creations like Darnell’s infamous D-Rod with a twin-turbo 12-valve diesel engine.
As word of Darnell and his team spread, the Discovery Channel took note, and in 2013, they launched Vegas Rat Rods, which brought mainstream attention. Darnell’s creations have been featured in national publications, like Hot Rod Magazine, Diesel World Magazine, Mopar Magazine, and more.
Level Up With WelderUp Workshops at VTI
Darnell is bringing his exclusive workshops to our Phoenix campus here at VTI, offering monthly, in-person training where attendees can be in the booth building real projects and working with real tools and materials from day one. Workshops are designed for approximately 20 people so that everyone can get real guidance and real time with Darnell and the instructors, and through VTI, there is the opportunity to turn the skills learned into a recognized certification.
What you’ll get from the WelderUp workshops at VTI:
- Hands-on welding experience
- Direct instruction from experienced professionals
- Real-world fabrication techniques
- Exposure to shop workflow and tools
- Certification path options
- Stronger confidence in welding skills
Workshops are open to everyone, regardless of experience. Over the course of the two-day experience, you choose your welding focus and learn the trade secrets Darnell has collected from a lifetime of experience in the industry.
What you can expect to learn from the Steve Darnell WelderUp MIG and TIG Workshops at VTI:
- What Is MIG Welding or What Is TIG Welding
- Welding Terms
- Welding Safety & Clothing
- Welding Workspace & Equipment
- How a MIG Welder Works or How a TIG Welder Works
- Prepping for Welding
- Welder Settings
- Weld Types & How to Weld
- Building & Fabrication
Interested in learning from the best?
About Professional Welding at VTI
Vocational Training Institute was founded in 2010 by a U.S. Army veteran who recognized the need for fast-paced, hands-on education in the trades, informed by input from industry experts. We have faculty with real-world experience who can help you train for and grow your career as a professional welder. Our focused, hands-on Welding training program is specifically designed to get you ready for a new job and a new future. If you’re ready to get started, register with VTI in Phoenix today.
