In the quiet corners of upstate New York, Stacey Mrva is bringing spreading her passion for welding and metalwork by forging a community of women looking to expand their skillsets and try something new.

Stacey, a skilled welder and artist, is the founder of Ironwood Studios, where she conducts Women's Welding Workshops that have inspired and trained hundreds of women. Her ideals of empowerment, creativity, and community building align perfectly with SkillHero's mission to redefine the vocational landscape and empower underrepresented populations.

"My focus is on creating a supportive environment where women can learn and feel accomplished, empowering them with the skills and confidence to succeed in welding and beyond." - Stacey Mrva

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Stacey to discuss her journey, workshops, and vision for the future of women in the trades.

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Q&A Interview with Stacey Mrva, Metal Sculptor

SkillHero: Tell us about your journey into metalwork and the trades. Did you have a traditional career in the trades before venturing into teaching and art?

Stacey Mrva: I actually came to welding through art. I was exposed to a lot of different mediums of art in high school which lead me into jewelry making, and then that evolved into studying metal smithing at Syracuse University. There, I fell in love with welding and knew it was what I wanted to do. I was essentially self-taught, as the university just provided the equipment and I learned by doing. After graduating, my parents bought me a Miller 185 welder, which I still use today.

SkillHero: You hear about people with a construction or manufacturing background that develop more creative ways to hone their craft later in their career, but your path is quite unique! Can you tell us more about your journey and how Ironwood Studios and how it came to be?

Stacey Mrva: For over 25 years, I focused on my own artistic and functional metalwork such as custom railings and furniture, but it's feast or famine being an artist. I was working a day job in management in retail, but wanted to find a way to bring in more revenue so I could quit my job and focus on doing the thing I loved and enjoyed - welding.

During the pandemic, my husband and I moved from Rochester to the Finger Lakes, where we found a property with a barn perfect for a metalwork shop. The barn had an ironwood tree growing near it, which felt like destiny, and thus, Ironwood Studios Inc. was born. We envisioned a creative space where people could come, learn, and create. Since then, I've been conducting Women's Welding Workshops and have taught over 600 people in the past two years.

SkillHero: That’s incredible! What kind of projects do your students work on in these workshops?

Stacey Mrva: The workshops are project-based, so everyone leaves with something they've created. The projects are designed to ensure participants feel accomplished. I cater to all different skill levels and walks of life in my shop, from beginners who may be scared to hold a welding torch to those who take to welding naturally. The goal is to build confidence and create a supportive environment where women can learn and thrive.

SkillHero: What skills do you think are most important for someone beginning in welding?

Stacey Mrva: Patience is crucial. Welding is a skill that requires perseverance. It's important to be patient with yourself and not get discouraged by initial failures. Learning by doing and continuous practice are key. Also, having a supportive community can make a huge difference.

SkillHero: Speaking of community, how important is mentorship in welding?

Stacey Mrva: Mentorship is extremely important. When I was younger, I was stubborn and didn’t ask for help, which made things harder. Now, I have mentors who support and advise me, which has been invaluable. Having someone to guide you and answer your questions can significantly impact your growth and confidence in the trade.

SkillHero: What advice would you give to women or underrepresented individuals considering a career in welding or the trades?

Stacey Mrva: The industry is becoming more open to women, but it still requires resilience. You need to be prepared to prove yourself, which can ultimately make you better at what you do. The skills and confidence you gain will be invaluable, and you'll find that you're sought after in your field because of your dedication and hard work.

SkillHero: What are your future goals for Ironwood Studios and your workshops?

Stacey Mrva: We're renovating the barn to create more space for events and possibly overnight workshops where participants can work on larger projects. I also want to develop a funded summer program to offer free workshops for young women, showing them what's possible and building their confidence through welding.

SkillHero: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?

Stacey Mrva: Teaching has been incredibly fulfilling. Watching people transform from being scared to feeling powerful and accomplished is amazing. Creating public art that people interact with daily is also very rewarding. But nothing beats the feeling of empowering others through teaching.

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Inspiring the Next Generation of Tradespeople

Heading to the Fingerlake region anytime soon? Discover the artistry and craftsmanship of Stacey and her team at Ironwood Studios in Springwater, NY. Explore or commission unique metalwork creations and learn more about their welding workshops.

Stacey Mrva's dedication to her craft and her commitment to empowering women in welding exemplify what it means to be a SkillHero. Just as Stacey builds confidence and skills in her students, SkillHero provides a platform for aspiring trade professionals to explore career paths, connect with mentors, and access the tools they need to succeed.

If Stacey's story has inspired you, take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the trades with SkillHero. Explore a wide range of skilled trades, connect with a supportive community, and find the training and opportunities you need to build a bright future. Join SkillHero today and become part of the movement that's transforming the skilled labor industry.