Aurelio Gunneweg TIG-lasser

Aurelio Gunneweg's career has included several positions in the field of metalworking. His career at VDL ETG started in 1992 at the Philips business school. After completing the training he started as a bander at ETG Eindhoven. After a period of CNC milling and numerical turning, he started in the Tig Melding Micro Orbital department. In 2023, his craftsmanship was awarded a nomination for the Noordhof Prize.
 

In what words would you describe your position as a TIG welder?

''Energizing, innovative and fascinating. We work on the latest products that are at the center of technological developments. Because of the challenge of the work, the day always goes quickly.'' 
 

What is important in your work?

''TWMO welding is very sophisticated work. You have to have good hand-eye coordination and be a perfectionist. It is very precise work because the products we manufacture are generally small parts used e.g. for the semiconductor industry. The lowest we weld is about 5.5 amps, the highest is 100 amps, about two-tenths of a millimeter above the product. Often these are small series, the largest series consists of about 40 pieces. So this gives you a lot of variety in your work.”
 

What do you like about your work?

''I have been working in the TWMO department at VDL ETG since 2006. Here I have been working all this time with great pleasure and dedication. Where at the time I was still alone in the department, it is now an enthusiastic team of four. We have a very nice and cozy team. My colleagues are one of the main reasons why I enjoy my job so much. Moreover, we can learn a lot from each other; together you always know more than alone.”
 

What is the highlight of your career?

''The nomination for the Noordhoff Prize is something I am very proud of. A nomination like that is really a crowning achievement. The award ceremony was a really nice moment where, for example, my whole family was also present. It was nice to be able to share this with them as well. I have also been a cooperating foreman for two years now. It is an honor that I can fulfill this role. I also do it with great pleasure. I enjoy arranging everything properly for my colleagues so that they can continue to work well.''