Young welders of the future: who won the first Pomeranian Virtual Welding Championship?

Technology meets craftsmanship – that’s the best way to describe the First Pomeranian Virtual Welding Tournament, held during BALTEXPO 2025 in Gdańsk. Students from technical and vocational schools across the region competed for the title of best welder in virtual reality, proving that innovation and practical skills can go hand in hand.

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09 october 2025 | 21:39 | Source: Gazeta Morska | Prepared by: Kamil Kusier | Print

fot. Jacek Sowa / UMWP

The competition was jointly organized by the Marshal’s Office of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, PGZ Naval Shipyard, and AmberExpo.

Welders wanted – industry needs skills

Shipbuilding, offshore energy, automotive, and construction – across all these industries, skilled welders are in constant demand. Modern welding is far from the old image of sparks and electrodes. Today’s welders are highly trained specialists, operating advanced systems, including laser welding technologies used in modern shipyards and production lines.

However, learning this craft is not simple. It requires access to proper tools, materials, and a safe environment – something not always easy to provide. That’s where virtual and augmented reality come into play.

Virtual reality training – precision without risk

During BALTEXPO 2025, participants had the chance to train on the Dig in Vision VR welding simulator, which allows users to practice welding techniques in a fully safe and eco-friendly digital environment. The simulator provides real-time feedback, enabling students to instantly identify mistakes and repeat exercises without wasting materials or risking injury.

Such technology brings a fresh, engaging approach to vocational education – one that could soon become a standard in technical schools. It’s a fusion of hands-on learning and cutting-edge innovation, preparing young people for the demands of modern industry, including the rapidly growing maritime and offshore sectors.

The best of the best

A total of 10 two-person teams from across the Pomeranian region took part in the tournament. The winners were students from the County Centre for Vocational and Continuing Education in Puck, who took the top spot on the podium. Second place went to the Bytów Secondary School Team, while third went to the Gdynia School of Refrigeration and Electronics.

The winning teams received cash and material prizes, presented by Agnieszka Baranowska, Member of the Board of the Pomeranian Voivodeship.

Technology driving tomorrow’s workforce

The Pomeranian Virtual Welding Tournament is more than just a competition – it’s an investment in the future of skilled labor. As industries evolve and technology transforms production processes, projects like this help bridge the gap between education and real-world industry needs.

For the maritime sector, where welding precision directly impacts the quality and safety of ships, platforms, and offshore structures, such initiatives are paving the way for a new generation of highly skilled professionals ready to take on the challenges of a modern ocean economy.

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