Meet Jaspar Schirmer

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jaspar Schirmer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jaspar, appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?

My self-discipline has been shaped by years of trial and error, lessons from my parents, and a deep understanding of how my habits influence my day. When I was younger, mornings were often chaotic and frustrating. I’d rush through them, feeling unprepared and scattered. Over time, I realized that the key to a productive day started with how I set the tone in the morning.

Now, I wake up every day at 5:15. This early start gives me the time I need to calibrate my day, enjoy a cup of coffee, and tackle computer work before heading to the shop. These small but essential habits help me feel grounded and ready to bring my best energy to everyone I interact with. As a business owner, I know the team and company rely on me to set the bar each day, and self-discipline ensures I do that.

My dad taught me self-discipline through consistent lessons, while my mom modeled it with grace. Together, they instilled in me the importance of taking responsibility and leading by example. It’s not just about waking up early—it’s about being intentional in all areas of life, from managing finances to meeting deadlines. Self-discipline allows me to create harmony and adapt to challenges.

For me, self-discipline is a journey, not a destination. Every trial and mistake has taught me something valuable, and I live by the principle of learning and improving every single day

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

At Jstarr Fabrication, we’re all about bringing ideas to life through custom metalwork—whether it’s restoring a trailer, crafting unique gates, or building sturdy handrails. What I love most about what we do is the chance to get my hands dirty and create something that not only looks great but lasts. There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning raw steel into a functional, beautiful piece, especially when I know it’s going to be something the client uses and appreciates for years to come.

What really excites me about this business is the variety. One day, I’m working on a 14-foot trailer restoration, and the next, I’m building a custom fence. Each project is different, and that keeps me on my toes. But the most rewarding part? The connections we’ve built with our community. I’ve been lucky to work with amazing clients, many of whom live right in my neighborhood. Through social media—whether it’s Nextdoor, Instagram, or TikTok—I’ve been able to show behind-the-scenes glimpses of the work we do, and that has really helped spread the word and bring in more projects. The support from neighbors and local clients has been overwhelming, and it’s honestly one of the best parts of owning this business.

I’m passionate about continuing to grow and improve. We’re a small shop right now, but we’re doing big things. I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what we can do and offer more to both residential and commercial clients. The journey has been full of learning and trial and error, but every project teaches me something new. The most exciting part is knowing that the work we do today is setting the stage for bigger and better things down the road.

At the end of the day, I’m just excited to see how far we can go and what we can create next. It’s been an incredible ride so far, and I’m grateful for everyone who’s supported us along the way. If there’s one thing I want people to know about Jstarr Fabrication, it’s that we’re not just about steel and welds—we’re about building strong relationships and creating something that lasts.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, the three qualities that have been most impactful to me are having transferable skills, patience, and resilience. These are the qualities I believe every visionary should hold onto.

I have so many ideas swirling in my head—new tools I need, equipment I want to add, and ways to improve what I’m working on. But the reality is, nothing happens overnight. This is where patience comes into play. Patience has been an unexpected ally in this journey. It’s something I’ve learned to embrace because things don’t always happen on my timeline. I’ve learned that first comes the idea, then the preparation, and finally, execution. You can’t rush the process, and that’s been huge for me.

Second, transferable skills. It’s about being resourceful, leveraging the connections you have and using the skills you’ve picked up in different areas of life to solve problems and make your ideas come to life. When it comes to welding and working in the trades, it takes a bit of trial and error to really get the hang of things. But the skills and tricks I’ve learned in one project often translate to others. You’re constantly building on what you know, which is both humbling and empowering.

The third quality, resilience, is perhaps the most crucial. It’s about overcoming obstacles and staying on track, even when things get tough. There have been moments when it felt like the roadblocks were endless, but the truth is, there’s always a way forward. I’ve learned to pivot and find alternate solutions when things aren’t going as planned. Resilience is more about mindset than anything else. It’s easy to feel defeated when challenges arise, but learning to push through and keep going is what separates success from failure. My mom used to say, “It’s all in your head.” And she was right—if you can train your mind to stay focused and positive, you’ll find the answers you need.

For anyone just starting out, my advice is simple: Trust yourself. Use the skills you have, be patient with the process, and remember that resilience is your greatest ally. There’s always an answer, and with the right mindset, you’ll find it. Don’t let obstacles define you—use them as fuel to push forward. You’ve got everything you need to make it happen.

How would you describe your ideal client?

My ideal clients are those who truly appreciate the blend of functionality and beautiful design. Whether they’re business owners or homeowners, they all share a common thread—they value craftsmanship and see welding not just as a trade but as an art form. For me, steel is the medium that transforms an idea into something both practical and visually stunning.

When I work with business owners, their needs typically revolve around creating durable, functional pieces that also represent their brand’s identity. They want things like custom gates, handrails, or exterior fixtures that are built to last and look great in their space. They see the value in high-quality craftsmanship that stands out and speaks to their business’s image. The design elements come into play just as much as the durability, and the best part is seeing these functional pieces come to life with a sleek, tailored design.

Homeowners, on the other hand, often approach welding with a similar appreciation for aesthetics, but their focus is more on personalized, artistic pieces that enhance their living space. They want to see custom creations, whether it’s a unique handrail, a decorative fence, or even artistic sculptures that fit their vision. They view welding as a way to bring their creativity to life, combining steel with design to elevate their home.

At the core of both types of clients is a shared appreciation for high-quality, meaningful work. They understand that every piece is more than just a tool or structure—it’s an expression of craftsmanship, creativity, and purpose. They don’t just want something functional; they want something that enhances their space and has a story behind it. When a client views welding as an art form, it opens up a world of possibilities for both the design and the impact of the work.

So, my ideal client is someone who values the perfect balance between beauty and utility, sees the artistry in welding, and appreciates the meticulous effort that goes into creating something that’s built to last. These clients understand that a great design isn’t just about looks; it’s about the function it serves and the story it tells.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jstarrwelds.com/aboutus
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jstarrfabrication/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jstarrwelding
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jstarr-fabrication/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JstarrFabrication

Image Credits

Jaylin Osborne