The journey of a European welding champion
Dedication, discipline and precision. Behind every successful weld lies years of training, focus and determination.
From discovering welding in secondary school to winning gold at EuroSkills and preparing to compete against the world’s best, Marco’s journey is a story of ambition, craftsmanship and continuous improvement. In this interview, he shares what drives him to keep pushing forward, the mental focus required to perform under pressure and why the right protective clothing makes a difference when every detail counts.
Name: Marco Malheiro
Place of Birth: Ponte de Lima (Portugal)
How did the partnership with Tranemo begin?
It started with the need to find quality equipment for Euroskills, and after a brief presentation of our project, Tranemo Workwear Portugal decided to support me in raising Portugal's name in this major competition.
How did your interest in welding begin and when did you realize you wanted to compete at a high level?
My interest in welding began in secondary school, when I first had contact with the field. Later, I started working at a company where welding tasks were carried out, and that was when I truly became fascinated by the profession. After that, I decided to take the Level 2 Welder course at CENFIM and began to take this area more seriously.
It was during this time, when I was selected to take part in the National Skills competition, that I realized I could compete at a higher level.
You have already won national and European titles, and now you are going to compete against the best in the world. What has been the biggest challenge along the way?
The biggest challenge was maintaining focus and discipline throughout the journey. Competition is not just about the day itself; it starts many months before and requires a lot of training and concentration.
What is needed, mentally and technically, to perform well under pressure in an international welding competition?
You need calm, focus, and confidence in the work you do. Technically, training makes all the difference in achieving good results under pressure.
In welding, how important are the right clothing and equipment, and what do you personally value most in Tranemo’s garments?
The right clothing and equipment are essential to work safely, comfortably, and with full focus on performance. I particularly value the protection, comfort, and freedom of movement that Tranemo Workwear garments provide.
During training and competition, I use the Outback HW welding boilersuit, which offers a high level of protection against radiant heat and metal splashes. It is also comfortable to wear over long periods and allows me to move freely, which is very important when working with precision and focus. The ventilation in the back helps keep it comfortable during intense and extended sessions.
OUTBACK HEAVY WELDING
Which competition or achievement has meant the most to you so far?
The gold medal at EuroSkills was, without a doubt, the most special achievement so far. It was a moment of great pride for me, as it represented all my effort, dedication, and hard work throughout my journey. Being the winner of that competition had a very special meaning for me.
What motivates you to keep improving after achieving that accomplishment?
What motivates me is the desire to keep improving and continue learning. I know I still have a lot of room to grow in this field.
What advice would you give to young people who are thinking about pursuing a career in welding and industry?
I would tell young people not to be afraid of pursuing welding. With dedication, commitment, and a willingness to learn, it is possible to achieve great results and go far in this profession.
