The shipbuilding industry in Norway has long been a cornerstone of its economy, catering to domestic and international markets. However, in recent years, the sector faced a critical challenge—securing skilled labour to meet rising demand. Recognising this gap, LabourLinkVN stepped in to supply highly skilled Vietnamese welders, showcasing the impact of Manpower Vietnam in revitalising a key industry.
The Challenge
Norway’s shipbuilding industry faced a dual crisis: a shortage of skilled welders and project delays due to increased global demand for advanced vessels. These issues were compounded by:
- A limited local talent pool with specialised welding certifications.
- A highly competitive labor market driving up costs.
- Struggles to meet international deadlines and maintain high-quality standards.
The situation was particularly acute for a shipyard in Bergen, which had secured contracts for multiple vessels, including offshore supply ships and passenger ferries.
LabourLinkVN’s Solution
To address the shipyard’s challenges, LabourLinkVN provided a tailored solution through its extensive network and expertise in international recruitment. The strategy included:
1. Identifying Skilled Workers
LabourLinkVN sourced 35 highly qualified Vietnamese welders, many of whom held certifications in advanced welding techniques such as TIG, MIG, and arc welding. The candidates were selected based on:
- Expertise in working with materials like steel and aluminium.
- Prior experience in shipbuilding and industrial welding projects.
- Strong adaptability to international work environments.
2. Customised Training
Recognising the unique standards and expectations of Norwegian shipyards, LabourLinkVN collaborated with local trainers in Vietnam to provide specialised workshops. These included:
- Training in ISO-certified welding techniques.
- Safety compliance for Norwegian maritime regulations.
- Communication skills for integration with international teams.
3. Seamless Deployment
LabourLinkVN handled all logistics, including:
- Visa and work permit applications.
- Travel arrangements.
- Orientation sessions to help workers adapt to life in Norway.
This end-to-end process ensured the welders were ready to contribute immediately upon arrival.
Implementation
A. Integration into the Shipyard
The 35 welders were assigned to key shipbuilding projects, including:
- Offshore Supply Vessels: Building hulls and welding critical joints to meet rigorous safety standards.
- Passenger Ferries: Contributing to the construction of lightweight structures for enhanced fuel efficiency.
Each welder was paired with a Norwegian supervisor to ensure smooth communication and adherence to project timelines.
B. Overcoming Language and Cultural Barriers
To address cultural differences, LabourLinkVN organised cross-cultural workshops. These initiatives fostered teamwork and ensured the welders integrated seamlessly with the local workforce.
Results
The collaboration between LabourLinkVN and the Norwegian shipyard led to remarkable outcomes:
- Enhanced Productivity:
- A 25% increase in project efficiency due to the welders’ technical proficiency.
- Reduction in project delays, with all vessels delivered on or ahead of schedule.
- Cost Savings:
- The shipyard saved approximately 20% on labour costs compared to hiring locally, thanks to the competitive rates of Vietnam Manpower.
- Quality Assurance:
- The welders maintained Norway’s high-quality shipbuilding standards, earning praise from clients and regulatory bodies.
Feedback from Stakeholders
Shipyard Management
“The Vietnamese welders brought in by LabourLinkVN exceeded our expectations. Their skill, dedication, and ability to adapt quickly were invaluable to completing our projects on time.”
Workers’ Perspective
“The opportunity to work in Norway has been life-changing. LabourLinkVN’s support made the transition smooth, and we’re proud to contribute to such prestigious projects.”
The Broader Impact of Manpower Vietnam
This project highlights the pivotal role Manpower Vietnam plays in addressing global labour shortages. By bridging skill gaps and facilitating cross-border employment, LabourLinkVN is not only supporting industries but also empowering workers to achieve professional growth.
Conclusion
The success of this project underscores LabourLinkVN’s capability to deliver reliable, skilled labour solutions tailored to industry needs. By leveraging the strengths of Vietnamese workers, the Norwegian shipyard overcame critical challenges, ensuring sustained growth and quality output.
As global industries continue to evolve, LabourLinkVN remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening international partnerships, and showcasing the value of Manpower Vietnam on the global stage.
