Brandy Aubé, a welding fabricator from Lafayette, Louisiana, first caught our attention during the YouTube Maker Series, where Make48 partnered with creators to raise awareness for charitable causes. In 2020, Brandy collaborated with woodworking artist April Wilkerson to craft a stunning river table in just 48 hours for the River Kelly Fund.
Since then, Brandy's talents have been a vital asset to Make48 events across the nation! Her expertise with Lincoln Electric tools has been invaluable to teams tackling welding and metalwork challenges.
I recently sat down with Brandy where we touched on many subjects including her passion for welding, her son’s recent achievement, and the Make48 experiences.
Balance
Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and numerous projects, isn’t easy but Brandy admits she doesn't stop. “I’ve learned how to prioritize my time, sometimes working on projects during the weekends, but I always make sure to enjoy myself and take time to be with my family and friends.”
Her son's recent First Place award for a mantel clock fills Brandy with pride. Witnessing her son's newfound interest in making, sparked by their collaboration, is a dream come true.
“He’s never taken an interest in art, but this was different because it involved Making. And ever since he was a baby, he’s always watched me weld.” This shared passion resonates deeply with Brandy, who learned the art of welding from her father and now passes down the torch to her son.
Empowering Through Welding
Brandy's commitment to hands-on learning extends beyond her family. She believes in the importance of being hands-on and shares her welding knowledge with countless individuals, including those with disabilities.
Her inspiring mentoring of Jimmy, a blind KSSB former team member, at the sixth National competition exemplifies her belief in the power of skill and determination. “A lot of people complain that they can't see what they're doing under the welding helmet, so it’s almost like a level playing field. Once you get it, it becomes a muscle memory. I told Adam (Kittrell), if you see Jimmy, tell him he better be practicing!”
But Brandy's talents extend beyond the workshop. She's also a rockstar in the truest sense, playing with her family in the 70s classic rock band, The Magnalites. Through her love of music, Brandy has taken on a very unique project - making traditional Cajun percussion instruments (triangles), which she has sold globally. “There was really nobody making them anymore. All the older men who were creating them have passed away, and nobody picked up the ball and ran with it,” Brandy said.
“I was approached by someone who knew I did metal work and asked for a triangle. I did some research and tried it out and it worked!”
These one-of-a-kind triangles, adorned with Brandy's signature scroll, have found their way into the hands of musicians worldwide, keeping the vibrant spirit of Cajun music alive.
“I've sold so many and have shipped them all over the world. There’s Cajun music everywhere and people love this little area in Louisiana.”
A Woman Of Many Talents
Growing up in the Bayou has allowed Brandy to be a big part of the community. Currently, Brandy works full-time for St. Martin Parish Tourism and is well-regarded in her town of about 40,000 people. “Working in the Office of Tourism has been wonderful. Everyone I meet has said how perfect I am for this job. I pretty much know all the folks in this town.”
Home is where the heart is. And for Brandy home was constructed almost entirely by her and her husband. “Our house is a metal building, which we had a contractor erect and then self-contracted, but we did a lot of work ourselves.”
Nearly every element within their home reflects their personal touch, from flea market finds to Brandy's own handiwork, including a staircase she built while pregnant. Even the couch they bought is going to get the Brandy makeover. She finally bought her dream tool, an industrial sewing machine that she will use to reupholster the couch.
Make48 Camaraderie
Since 2020, Brandy has participated in five Make48 competitions. She brings over 20 years of fabrication experience and excels at understanding and meeting the teams' needs quickly and efficiently. Her experience allows her to bring a unique perspective and skill set to the competitions, including working with different materials and tools.
Brandy looks forward to reuniting with the other tool techs at the competitions. “I mean, I get to be on TV! With some of my favorite people too. Make48 has really become a family.”
The Make48 competitions bring Brandy back to her design school days, where teamwork was essential. "I remember collaborating on projects in design school and in past jobs," she says. "It's fascinating to learn from a woodworker and see how differently we think, or how things are assembled in wood compared to metal. I love the collaborative environment and the diverse ideas that teams come up with."
Make48 has been a fulfilling experience for Brandy, both professionally and personally. She values the recognition and the chance to represent Lincoln Electric, a company she describes as incredibly supportive, stating, "They've been amazing! Just last year, I attended classes at their school in Cleveland with Jimmy DiResta." As a Lincoln Electric influencer, Brandy collaborates with their team on special promotions. The upcoming Nationals, our final event of the year, will bring together teams and tool techs from past competitions to Kansas City. As a sponsor of Make48's 8th season, Brandy and Lincoln Electric will be back at the national competition!
An Inspiring Journey
Brandy Aubé’s journey is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for welding and fabrication. Whether she's mentoring aspiring welders, crafting musical instruments, or promoting her beloved Bayou region, Brandy's infectious enthusiasm and creative spirit continues to inspire and uplift all those fortunate enough to cross her path. To follow Brandy visit her channel on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
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