I’m Shawn Chase, Owner and Operator of Cornerstone Custom Welding & Fabrication. My passion for welding began at 12 years old on a cattle farm in Horton, MI. With a stick welder in hand, I cut my teeth repairing rusty, manure-covered gates and farm equipment—learning quickly that if I could weld on that, I could weld on anything.

In high school, I enrolled in the Welding Technology program at Jackson Area Career Center, where I built a foundation in welding processes, blueprint reading, and hands-on application. From there, I advanced to Ferris State University’s Welding Technology program, where I deepened my understanding of design, engineering, and the integration of both manual and robotic welding. I graduated with an Associate of Applied Science in 2012 and stepped into the workforce.

For the next 13 years, I worked as a Welding Engineer, specializing in robotic welding and advanced joining processes. My career has taken me from automation integrators like JR Automation—where I supported projects for Tesla, Shape Corp, Faurecia and more—to working directly for BMW, and later as a contract Joining Engineer for R&E Automated Systems, supporting projects for Amazon, Tenneco, Great Dane, and more. Along the way, I also worked as a Design Engineer, developing products with 3D modeling tools such as AutoCAD and Fusion360. In 2024, I earned my CWI certification (Certified Welding Inspector, AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code) through the American Welding Society.

Today, Cornerstone Custom allows me to bring all of that experience together—combining engineering insight, design creativity, and hands-on fabrication skill. My passion is taking ideas from concept to reality, delivering custom metal products that are as durable as they are precise. I strive to bring the highest level of quality to every project and to honor God in everything I do.

Outside the shop, you’ll usually find me outdoors—hunting, fishing, camping, or spending time with my family.