Making Our Mark: Daniel

The past five years have been a whirlwind of achievements for Daniel. During this time, he graduated from high school, completed a welding technician apprenticeship, and won the Skills Austria nationals, twice. He went on to represent Austria at WorldSkills Special Edition 2022 and took home a Medallion for Excellence. These experiences have put him in a position where he can have increased impact on his industry.

Daniel currently works for PALFINGER AG, an international technology and mechanical engineering company. His responsibilities go far beyond welding materials, building on the foundation he established during his apprenticeship. Even though he is at an early stage in his career, Daniel has been tasked to strengthen links within his company’s supply chain. He says, “I am working with our suppliers to ensure the quality of our products and build more effective partnerships.”

Daniel believes these additional responsibilities have come from the experience he has had competing for more than five years. He recalls some of the lessons he has learned, such as “the importance of maintaining enthusiasm, having focus, and managing pressures.” He continues, “[I believe] additional effort and going the extra mile supports your development and leads to long-term success.”

Daniel continues to “go the extra mile” with his own learning. While working, he is also completing a Master’s course in Metal Construction / Mechanical Engineering and taking a business course, all while he prepares to participate in EuroSkills Herning 2025. Bernhard Eicher is Director Apprentice Development & Training EMEA at PALFINGER and Daniel’s mentor. He says, “Daniel is very determined. He knows what he wants. Sometimes you even need to slow him down a bit because he wants to do lots of things at once. What we have seen in welding is that he has very, very high standards.”

His achievements are paying off. Daniel explains, “Recently, I became a Young Professional at the International Institute of Welding (IIW). It inspired me to contribute more to the global welding branch and network, and to motivate other [students] to go the same way.” Daniel takes this role seriously. With a growing need for trained professionals to plug the skills gap in Austria, he is playing his part in addressing the issue and advocating for Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

While he encourages and energises others, he also receives inspiration from those in his professional life. He says, “The chance for continuous growth and working with people from around the globe keeps me motivated. I value my supportive colleagues and the guidance I receive. The collaboration within the Global Supplier Quality Management department is especially inspiring and educational.”

Read more stories of the impact young people are having.