Lucas Walsh, a Manson-Northwest Webster High School graduate, turned his interest in laser classes into a thriving business in Fort Dodge. Walsh Engraving, located at 1603 Third Ave. S., offers engraving services on a variety of items, from tumblers and water bottles to cake pans and cutting boards.
It all started when Walsh decided to take a laser class in high school to fill up his schedule. Under the guidance of his teacher, Brian Nelson, Walsh quickly fell in love with the craft. After taking advanced laser classes at Manson-Northwest Webster, Walsh purchased engraving machinery in 2021 and started working out of his house. As demand for his services grew, Walsh decided to open a storefront in Fort Dodge in February of this year.
One of the driving forces behind Walsh’s decision to open his shop was the lack of engraving services in the Fort Dodge area. Many of his customers had been ordering items online because there weren’t any local options available. Walsh saw an opportunity to fill this gap in the market and provide customers with a convenient and reliable engraving service.
Walsh’s business has seen significant growth since its inception, with orders pouring in from individuals and businesses alike. He can now produce large quantities of items, such as tumblers and cutting boards, to meet the needs of his customers. Additionally, Walsh offers engraved patches for hats, book bags, and other clothing items, showcasing his versatility and attention to detail.
Using a 105-watt CO2 laser, Walsh can engrave a wide range of materials, from wood to leather. While he can handle design work for metal projects, he outsources the production to another company. Customers can easily reach out to Walsh through phone calls, texts, or Facebook messages, with plans to launch a website in the near future.
Despite initial doubts from his parents, Walsh pursued his passion for engraving and turned it into a successful business. He credits his teacher, Brian Nelson, for instilling in him the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. Looking ahead, Walsh hopes to expand his offerings by investing in additional equipment, such as a fiber laser, to meet the growing demand for his services.
With one employee, Hunter Olson, assisting him with orders, Walsh is focused on keeping up with the influx of projects while ensuring customer satisfaction. His dedication to his craft and commitment to quality have set Walsh Engraving apart in the Fort Dodge community, making it a go-to destination for personalized and custom engraving services.
