Volodymyr Leha: From Veteran to Professional Welder

“I have long dreamed of becoming an electric and gas welder, but I never had the opportunity to do so: I lacked the time and resources. I taught myself some welding, but always wanted to acquire thorough, professional knowledge. So, these courses are a godsend for me. I see myself in this profession, which is also very relevant today and, I think, in the future recovery of the country,” says Volodymyr Leha from Pereiaslav, Kyiv region

Volodymyr received his first education as an electrician. However, he didn’t work in this field for long, as the profession was not in demand in the labour market then. But he did not lose heart and began to look for other employment options. Before the full-scale invasion, Volodymyr spent most of his time working as a driver and car mechanic.

Volodymyr has a wife and three children. However, in February 2022, he had no choice but to volunteer to defend the country from the Russian invaders. A year and a half later, Volodymyr returned home. The man admitted that after his experience at the front, he began to perceive life in an entirely different way.

After his service, Volodymyr had to find a new job and adapt to civilian life. Then, he came across an advert for training as an electric and gas welder. Volodymyr studied hard and can now confidently call himself an electric and gas welding specialist, not just an amateur. He also noted that such courses helped him recover as an ex-combatant.

Volodymyr successfully completed his training and plans to get an electric and gas welder job at a company that produces metal constructions. He is convinced that the profession is essential for the country’s reconstruction.

The training was conducted under the Fast Skills for Employment project, implemented by sequa gGmbH within Skills4Recovery.