Vicksburg welder, Wesley Bailess, finds his future in engineering

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) – The first time he picked up a welding stinger, Wesley Bailess wasn’t in a classroom. He was a teenager standing in a fabrication shop at Yazoo River Towing, where his father worked.

A family friend looked at him and asked, “Do you want to learn more than you did at school today?”

The then-15-year-old didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely,” he said.

Moments later, he was suited up with borrowed gloves and a hood, running beads across a piece of scrap metal. What began as a small spark of curiosity turned into a passion that would shape his teenage years, and now, his future.

By 17, Bailess was welding full-time. But the work became more than just a job. It became a training ground for life, shaped by mentors who left lasting impressions.

JO, one of his earliest influences, modeled leadership and taught him mental strength. “He showed me ways to overcome underlying anger, mental confusion, and personal challenges,” he said. Joe T. built his skills in problem-solving and precision at Big River, while Bubba Lynn helped him master fitting rudders and fabrication.

John Doss, a teacher both at the torch and in conversation, reminded him to stay “comfortable being uncomfortable” while weaving in lessons on life, faith, and hunting. And most recently, Ben, his partner in the shop for the past five months, has been like an older brother, offering guidance in welding, fit work, and friendship.

“We’ve been the only two on the welding and fitting side of the fab shop, so we’ve grown much closer,” Wesley said. “We talk about hunting, mud riding, and life in general, all while getting work done efficiently and effectively.”

Now, he is preparing to take that foundation to Mississippi State University, where he will pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. For him, the classroom will not replace the shop floor, but expand upon it.

“I want to take my practical knowledge and get a degree in mechanical engineering,” he said. “I chose this degree because I can be more hands-on while also getting behind the scenes a lot more within the design process.”

Though he plans to continue welding on the side, and perhaps one day open a minor mobile welding and fabrication business, his vision goes beyond sparks and steel.

“Working within any field should never just be about a paycheck,” he said. “The work you do will affect your attitude, knowledge, and learning skills. The work you do while you are young will affect you and teach you many things to use throughout your whole life.”

For young welders coming up behind him, he offers advice that mirrors his journey: take chances, stay humble, and lean into the heat.

“Learn to get uncomfortable, get used to the heat, learn communication, safety, and time management skills,” he said. “The best way to learn is to get your hands on the project. Take chances on yourself and shoot big. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Most of all, do not back down from any work or slack up, give everything 100% effort and skill, even on small projects.”