Volodymyr Leha: from veteran to professional welder

Volodymyr Leha, 

Electric and gas welder 

Pereiaslav, Kyiv region, Centre for Vocational Education and Training

Success story is provided by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

“I have long dreamed of becoming electric and gas welder, but I never had the opportunity to do so: I lacked the time and resources. I taught myself a little bit of welding, but I 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”.

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 at the time. 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, the man had no choice but to volunteer to defend the country from the Russian invader. 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 a completely different way.

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

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

Training was supported by Multi Donor Initiative Skills4Recovery