Founder Experience

With over 28 years of experience in the global power transformer market, Bud Welch is a recognized leader in sourcing, engineering coordination, and delivering high-voltage transformer solutions for utilities, industrial clients, and hyperscale data center operators.

As the Founder of Transformer Exchange, Bud has built a reputation for solving critical power challenges under tight timelines, leveraging a global network of OEMs, surplus assets, and logistics partners to deliver reliable, cost-effective transformer solutions.

Bud’s career began as at Toshiba in the 1990s, where he spent his tenure working directly on transformer design, manufacturing, and sales. This technical foundation gives him a distinct advantage in the market—bridging the gap between engineering feasibility and commercial execution.

Today, that combination allows Bud to:

• Evaluate transformer specifications with precision 
• Identify viable replacement units globally 
• Guide clients through inspection, testing, and compliance 
• Execute complex procurement and delivery strategies 

• High Voltage Power Transformers (GSUs, Autotransformers, Substation Units) 
• Emergency Replacement Sourcing 
• Data Center & Utility Infrastructure Projects 
• Global Equipment Procurement (OEM + Surplus Markets) 
• Factory Inspections & Testing Coordination 
• End-to-End Delivery Execution 

• Client: Kindle Energy 
• Scope: Emergency replacement of failed GSU transformer 
• Solution: 
  • Located a new/unused 440 MVA, 345kV transformer manufactured by Pauwels (Netherlands) 
  • Coordinated client factory inspection and full testing (Jan–Feb 2023) 
  • Managed shipment from Europe to the U.S. 
• Execution Timeline: 
  • Identified: Late 2022 
  • Delivered: Mid-April 2023 
• Outcome: Rapid deployment minimized downtime for a critical generation asset 

• Client: Google 
• Scope: Supply of two complete 161kV mobile substations 
• Solution: 
• Sourced Siemens-manufactured mobile substations 
• Coordinated inspection and approval process 
• Executed complex multi-site logistics delivery 
• Execution Timeline: Completed within ~30 days 
• Outcome: Enabled rapid energization for new hyperscale data center sites

• Client: Nucor Steel 
• Scope: Supply of two 230kV substation transformers for new facility 
• Solution: 
  • Identified available units at an Alabama site 
  • Coordinated testing and validation 
  • Developed and executed delivery logistics plan to Frostproof, FL 
• Outcome: Supported critical infrastructure for new steel production facility 

Bud operates with a simple, results-driven mindset—move quickly, but never at the expense of technical accuracy. Every project is approached with clear, transparent communication and a focus on practical execution, not theory. By leveraging long-standing global relationships across manufacturers and asset owners, he consistently uncovers solutions others can’t—especially when timing is critical. 

With nearly three decades in the transformer market and a foundation in engineering, Bud brings both credibility and confidence to every deal. Clients rely on his ability to make informed decisions, execute under pressure, and deliver results when it matters most. His trusted relationships across OEMs and secondary markets, combined with a strong track record supporting utilities and data center operators, make him a dependable partner on high-stakes projects.