12.01.2026
International
We continue our series highlighting the next generation of welding professionals. In this interview series, young welders share how they entered the trade, the challenges they’ve encountered along the way, and what they enjoy most about their work. In this edition, we meet Filippos Kapitoris, who, together with his teammates from Greece, took part in the Young Welding Competition at SCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN in Essen, Germany.
How did you first get into welding and what attracted you to this field?
Filippos Kopitoris: I first got into welding almost by accident, but I stayed because I saw a real opportunity in the technical profession. For many years people thought that manual trades were fading, but now welding is coming back stronger than ever and I wanted to be part of that revival. What attracted me most was realizing that welding is not just melting metal together. Behind every weld there is a whole science and, at the same time, a form of art. The more I learned, the more I understood how complex and fascinating it actually is. You need to know materials, heat control, safety, geometry, different processes… and then comes the part where your hands, your focus and your technique turn all that knowledge into something real. That combination of precision and creativity is what hooked me. Welding gives you the power to build things that last and every day you can see the results of your work. That’s what made me choose this path and it still motivates me to keep improving.
What motivates you most about working with metal and welding technology?
What motivates me most about working with metal and welding technology is seeing how something so solid and stubborn can be shaped, joined, and transformed with skill and precision. There’s something powerful about taking raw materials and, through technique and control, creating something functional, strong and lasting. Every weld feels like a small achievement, you start with two separate pieces, and by the end, you’ve created a single structure that can carry weight, withstand pressure, or even become part of a much bigger project. I’m also motivated by the constant evolution of welding technology. New processes, better machines, advanced materials, there is always something new to learn. It keeps the work exciting because it’s not a routine job; it’s a field that combines hands-on craftsmanship with technical knowledge. And honestly, what drives me the most is knowing that my work matters. Welders help build ships, bridges, pipelines, machinery, things that people depend on every day. Being part of that gives me pride and pushes me to keep improving.
Can you share a project or moment you are especially proud of so far?
One moment I’m especially proud of so far was when I got the chance to work in the Greek shipyards. After almost ten years of inactivity, the shipyards are finally coming back to life and being part of that revival feels incredible. It’s not just another job site; it’s a symbol of Greek industry starting to stand strong again. The first time I walked into the yard and struck an arc on a real ship structure, I felt like I was contributing to something much bigger than myself. Seeing the teams working together, the steel plates being fitted, the sound of welding everywhere… it made me proud to think that my skills can help rebuild a sector that was once almost lost. Being part of this new chapter for the Greek shipyards is one of the biggest motivations I’ve had so far, and it’s a project I will always remember.
How do you see the future of welding – what opportunities or changes excite you most?
I see the future of welding as something really exciting and full of opportunities. The industry is changing fast with new technologies, automation, robotics and cleaner energy projects and welders are right in the middle of that change. What excites me most is that welding is no longer seen as just a manual trade. It’s becoming a high-tech profession, where you need skills not only with your hands, but also with new tools, sensors, digital systems and advanced materials. I’m especially excited about the new projects in renewable energy, hydrogen pipelines, offshore structures, and the revival of big industries like shipbuilding. All these areas need qualified welders more than ever. Even with automation and robots, there will always be a need for skilled people who understand processes, quality, and safety. For me, the future of welding looks bright, more innovation, more training, more opportunities to grow. And being part of this new generation of welders makes me feel like I’m stepping into a field that will keep evolving and opening doors for many years to come.
Who or what has influenced you most on your journey as a welder?
What has influenced me most on my journey as a welder is a combination of two things: the ‘magic’ of welding itself and the environment I grew up in. Welding has always fascinated me, the idea that you can create something strong and permanent using heat, light and precision still feels almost magical. Every time I strike an arc, I’m reminded why I chose this path. At the same time, my surroundings played a huge role. I grew up in an industrial area, where factories, shipyards and workshops were part of everyday life. It was normal to see big constructions, metalwork, and people doing technical jobs. My family is also full of technical professionals, so from a young age I was hearing stories about engineering, machines and building things with your hands. That atmosphere made welding feel like a natural direction for me, almost like I was continuing a tradition. All of that together has shaped who I am today as a welder.
What advice would you give to other young people considering welding as a career?
My advice to young people thinking about welding as a career is simple: don’t be afraid to start. Welding may look tough at first, but once you understand the basics and start building your skills, you realize how many opportunities this profession offers. It’s a field where your effort really shows , the more you practice, the better you become, and the more doors open for you. Also remember that welding isn’t just a manual job. It’s a science and an art at the same time. If you’re curious, patient, and willing to learn, you can build a career that takes you anywhere , from shipyards and pipelines to modern industries like hydrogen, renewables and advanced manufacturing. And finally, find good teachers and listen to experienced welders. Their advice can save you years of trial and error. Welding can give you stability, pride and a future, but only if you respect the craft and keep improving every day.
Thank you for sharing your story!
Schlagworte
EventSCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN 2025TIGTrade FairWeldingYoung Welding Competition
