From sparks to structures: The evolution of Zap Welding in Nelson

Jeff Shecter on innovation, precision, and the ever-changing world of metalwork.

— Photo courtesy Zap Welding

Zap Welding has been standing strong in Nelson, B.C., for nearly four decades. Founded by Jeff Shecter in 1986, Zap began as a one-man operation with a welding truck and a vision. From that modest start, the company has grown into a leading structural steel fabrication company, contributing to landmark projects across B.C. and Alberta. But Zap Welding isn’t just about steel—it’s about resilience, craftsmanship, and the constant drive to evolve.

For Shecter, welding was never just a job—it was a way to build a future without sacrificing time at home. From custom railings to large-scale structural steel projects, his business growth has been shaped by adaptability, precision, and a deep respect for the craft. In this interview, Shecter shares the challenges, innovations, and defining moments that have shaped Zap Welding’s success over the past 35+ years.

Can you share the story behind the founding of Zap Welding in 1986?

I went into business that year, under a different name. Our first project was working for Cliff Chase at the redevelopment at Blaylock Mansion. The actual name came out of a friendly poker game, where we were tossing out some possible business names. It was short and to the point.

What inspired you to specialize in structural steel fabrication?

I was initially a union pipe welder. In the process of finding a niche market where I could stay home and raise a family, (not travel for work), I initially started doing a lot of railings, which then gravitated to the miscellaneous metals scope—which then gravitated to structural steel.  

- Photo courtesy Zap Welding

How has the company evolved since its inception?

In 1986, I started with a welding truck and now work out of 4,000-square-foot shop plus a large yard. A lot of the work processes were manual and now almost everthing is automated. We can do way more with less!

What are some of the most memorable projects you've completed?

We did the expansion of Rocky Mountain airport, the new Nelson and District Recreation Complex, the new Creston recreation complex, Chances Casino in Kelowna, Milestones in Kelowna, the most recent expansion to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, lots of new residences with major structural steel components.

How do you ensure quality and safety in your fabrication and erection processes?

As a CWB certified company, we are audited every month for conformance to W47.1, a national standard. All of our employees are certified to weld a multitude of processes and hold certificates for operation of varied pieces of construction equipment. Each new employee is trained in the safe operation of equipment and the safe application of work processes. It is fundamental to how we deliver our products and services to the marketplace.

What challenges have you faced in the industry, and how have you overcome them? 

Being in business is an everyday challenge. Turning those challenges into opportunites for work and profit is the name of the game. Do I have a batting average of 1,000%? Obviously not. Though I have struck out many times, I can safely say that I have batted at least average or better in all the business endeavors I have been involved with. The construction industry can be very unforgiving, yet we have been fortunate to work with a myriad of companies, project managers, self-made entrepreneurs who all share a proclivity for problem solving over the past 35 years and counting. It is what keeps me young and my brain active.

How do you stay current with advancements in welding and fabrication technology?

We attend the leading industry trade shows, both in Canada and the US to see the latest in fabrication technology. We subscribe to all the relevant trade magazines, which are almost wholly digital, to keep up to date with where the industry is and where it is going.

What are your goals for the future of Zap Welding?

We are at a bit of a crossroads. Do we jump to the next level of size and volume, which would necessitate an added layer of supervisory personnel, or do we continue as we have similarly to the last 35 years? And I should be heading for the exit door!

What do you find most rewarding about your work in the welding and fabrication industry?

As a contract job shop, we work on a continuous stream of varied projects. Each job is completely different than the previous. We have continually invested in new machinery, that adds to our productivity and efficiency, and we are always assessing what to buy next.

For me it is a frame of mind; knowing that there is an opportunity around every corner. The majority of our work is bid to general contractors throughout BC and some in Alberta. At any one time, the work would be largely publicly funded, but there have been cycles when it is private investment that drives the projects. Getting paid is the most important part of being in business, no matter what business.