RDP welding apprentice heads to WorldSkills Competition this week

Throughout his training Stang focused on the four major arc-welding processes including Metal Inert Gas (MIG), Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), Stick and Flux-Cored welding, all of which he will be required to demonstrate at worlds.

“We have a general idea about what the projects will be at WorldSkills, so I have been training in those areas, but they can change them up to 30 per cent,” Stang added. “On the first day, I will have to do five X-ray welds that have to be perfectly clean inside. The next day, I will have to weld a steel pressure vessel using MIG, TIG, Stick and Flux-Cored, which must hold 1,000 psi. The last day, I will be welding aluminum and stainless-steel projects.”

Most recently, he also competed at the American Welding Society/Lincoln Global Skills Challenge in Alabama from August 8 to 15, where he earned the top spot.

“The projects, time allotment and the equipment will be very similar to WorldSkills, so it’s an opportunity to be in that environment ahead of time,” said Lee Yasinski, RDP Welding instructor and Skills Coach.

“Lucas’ progress has been exponential. The stronger countries typically have three to four trainers, who are past competitors at WorldSkills, and they put a lot of time and money into preparation. We learned that the Brazilian competitor has been training for the past four years, six days a week, eight hours a day at minimum wage. For us to compete with that is incredible.”

Previously, RDP welding alumnus Ben Rainforth won WorldSkills bronze in 2024, which has given Stang added motivation.

“It’s very inspiring to know that someone else has done it before me, so I know that if I put in the time, I have the opportunity to do really well,” Stang said.

Stang and Yasinski will leave for China on September 18 before the event commences on September 23.

“The goal is to have fun and do the best that I can,” Stang added. “I think Shanghai will put on one of the best shows that WorldSkills has ever seen.”

“I’d really like to thank RDP for everything. The shop techs have spent a lot of time preparing materials for me to weld, and RDP’s welding department has been supportive. This wouldn’t have been possible without my sponsors. My grandparents—I’ve been living with them in Red Deer for the past year. Most of all, I’d like to thank Lee, my trainer, for being here every day with me. It has made a huge difference in my life, and more than just welding.”

by rdnewsNOW staff

RDP welding apprentice heads to WorldSkills Competition this week

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