Behind GTS Awards: Education, Sandblasting & Industry Growth

Send us Fan MailBraden from GS2 Awards is back on The Riley Black Project!In this episode, we dive into the world of custom awards, sandblasting, UV printing, laser engraving, and the growing demand for premium personalized products. Braden shares how a simple shift into awards helped transform his business, why sandblasting remains one of the most powerful tools in the industry, and how the new Beyond the Beam Learning Center is helping makers, engravers, and business owners level up their skills.We also discuss pricing strategies, custom award design, production workflows, trade shows, hands-on education, and why creating unique products can separate your business from the competition.Whether you're running a laser engraving business, selling personalized products, exploring UV printing, or looking for new ways to increase profits, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience.Topics Covered:• Custom awards and trophy design• Sandblasting for laser businesses• UV printing opportunities• TROTEC Laser equipment• Ikonics Imaging sandblasting systems• Award business profitability• Glass engraving techniques• Beyond the Beam Learning Center• Pricing custom products• Growing a creative manufacturing businessConnect with Braden & GS2 Awards:www.gs2awards.comJoin the Riley Black Project Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/rileyblackprojectSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack