Forging the Future: Nordec’s Welder Training Program
Nordec, as a leading provider of complex steel structure solutions, is committed to optimizing the entire value chain for its customers, from design and manufacturing to installation. To address the challenge of recruiting skilled welders directly into the company, we initiated our own welder training program.
The need for an in-house welder training program arose from the challenge in finding ready-to-work welders. Planning for the training program began at the start of 2024, with an initial schedule, resources, and cost estimates. By March, we partnered with Biisoni, a staffing service, to explore different models for the training. By the end of April, Biisoni had launched the recruitment for the paid welder training program. Tarhill Production Oy, a training expert, was also brought on board to manage the training structure, interviews, and monitoring of trainees’ progress.
Nordec’s welder training program was initially set to start in August with six selected candidates. However, due to the high interest, with 133 applications received and 19 candidates interviewed, the number of trainees was increased to eight. The training duration ranged from one to two months, depending on the individual’s skills.
The training facility was equipped with welding stations and other necessary training setups. The training program included practical exercises, welding qualification tests, and theoretical sessions.
Internal resources played a significant role in the training. The program started in mid-August and quickly gained momentum due to the high motivation of the participants. The first five trainees were hired to work at the beginning of October, followed by the other three within a month. All participants successfully completed the training, and their on-the-job training continues with their mentors.
The course trainer, installer-welder Jari Paski, is very impressed with the quality of the students: “They have shown excellent motivation to be here and learn. Our students are a well-selected group, enthusiastic and eager to work.” Paski has overseen the practical training portion of the students and sees the content of the training program as well-structured and of good quality.
Niilo Lahdensuo saw Nordec’s course online and couldn’t pass up the opportunity: “I worked in the food industry and wanted to change fields. I did have some experience in metalwork, but no formal training. This seemed too good to be true: paid training with a guaranteed job at the end of it in a good company.” He says the process was efficient: “In under a month from applying, I was selected. The training itself was diverse, realistic, and high quality, firstly focusing on theory and then gradually moving toward practical training. We had our own welding facilities and constant guidance, first from our trainer and later, when we started working in production, from a senior work partner.”
Trainer Jari Paski and trainee Niilo Lahdensuo
Nordec’s welder training program has been very successful, contributing to the company’s workforce development and operational capacity. The production staff have been a great asset in sharing their expertise with future Nordec professionals. The program’s success highlights Nordec’s dedication to continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring skilled and motivated employees for the future.
