19: Brent & Chris Jansky - Three Generations, One Torch

In this episode of Irregardless, Shep sits down with Chris and Brent Jansky—the father-son duo leading T.J. Welding & Fabrication in Wharton, Texas. As President and Vice President, respectively, Chris and Brent represent the second and third generations of their family-run metal fabrication and welding business. Their story is one of legacy, resilience, and evolution in the metals industry.
They take us back to the company’s origins, founded by Chris’s father and later passed down to him. After decades of hard work, Chris eventually handed the reins to Brent in the wake of Hurricane Harvey—a catastrophic event that not only devastated their shop but also much of their town. In the face of destruction, the Janskys share how loyal employees, strong community ties, and family leadership helped rebuild their operation from the ground up.
Now at the helm, Brent reflects on honoring his family’s legacy while leading the company into the digital age. From adapting technology to staying true to old-school values, the conversation hits on powerful themes: generational transitions, digital transformation in metalworking, and how to balance tradition with innovation.
It’s a must-listen for anyone in the steel or fabrication world—and for those who understand the grit it takes to build, rebuild, and grow a family business in today’s world.