28-year-old Kody Goddard discusses his metal fabrication and welding business, KG Fabrication, located in Ashley Falls, MA. 

When did you start KG Fabrication and how did you come up with the name and branding?

I formed a DBA for KG Fabrication in 2016 when I was two years out of high school. I spent countless days and nights trying to come up with a name and logo that would suit my needs and expectations. I’m known around the area as KG, so I thought the simplicity of using my initials would flow nicely and people would know it’s my work. I designed the logo and color scheme on my own. Our entire fleet is lettered with our logo and color scheme, so there’s no mistaking us when we pull onto a job site. “KG Blue” is now a term used in our area to describe the color I chose for the brand as well. 

Did you have welding experience before starting KG Fabrication?

As a teenager, I thought I was going to pursue a career in carpentry. While helping my family at their garage during summer break, I found myself developing a passion for building race cars like my uncle. I loved the attention to detail and the more I started welding on the cars, the more I realized that I had a natural talent for it, and I decided to pursue metal working. I have no formal training, but I put in many hours to perfect my craft.

What inspired you to take the leap and start the business?

I’ve always had the entrepreneurial spirit, and after three years working alongside my uncle, I decided that I wanted to build upon everything that I learned and go out on my own. I worked for Marasco Metalwork for a bit to gain more experience. As I acquired a good reputation and received more requests for side work, I was inspired to go all in and just start my own business. 

Is there someone who was an influential part of developing KG Fabrication?

I have to give a lot of credit and thanks to my grandparents, Diane and Arnold Agar. They rented a garage on the back side of their property to me so that I could grow my business. I’m not sure that as a teenager just out of high school I could have afforded commercial shop space, so I’m very grateful for that. 

How did the first year go?

My first year, I was still working for my grandfather doing towing during the day and welding at night. At the end of my first year in business, I had enough work to do welding full-time. 

What was your plan when you started, and has it changed?

I didn’t really have a set plan when I first started; I took a leap of faith. My plan was to do what I love and hope that it brought me success. So far, my plan has worked, and I am very proud of how my business is running. 

What is one of the most important things that you learned?

One of the most important things I learned was the need to prioritize customer satisfaction and build strong relationships with your clients. You have to ensure that you deliver value and consistency. Word of mouth is how you grow your business, and that all starts with making sure your clients’ visions are brought to life. 

What were the most challenging parts about starting this business?

As a lot of business owners are dealing with right now, finding dedicated employees has been the most difficult thing. Hiring and retaining employees is very challenging, but I’m fortunate to say that I have found a solid crew that I’m very happy with. 

What was the most fun about starting KG Fabrication?

I really enjoyed branching out, meeting, and working with new people in various businesses and trades. This has helped immensely in learning how to run the business side of things. 

How has KG Fabrication changed over time?

When I began my business, most of my focus was on what I knew from working with my uncle in regards to building roll cages for race cars, turbo kits, custom tin work, exhaust fabrication, etc. Over the last few years, my business has evolved to include high-end architectural metal work as well. We’re also now certified in structural steel fabrication. 

How is your work-life balance?

This is one of the most challenging aspects of being a business owner. I have two daughters and a girlfriend at home, and I work very long hours. When I get home, I jump right into dad-mode and help out in any way I can. It’s very important to set boundaries in your business: create hours and stick to them as much as possible, so that you can truly focus on those most important to you. 

Is there anything you wish you would have known before you started KG Fabrication?

How much hard work and personal sacrifice is involved in running your own business. However, I wouldn’t change a thing. Running your own business also gives you many freedoms that you simply don’t have when you work for someone else. •

To learn more about KG Fabrication, visit their website kgfabrication.com and follow them on Instagram @kg_fabrication.