As India’s manufacturing sector evolves, the need to build a skilled and inclusive workforce has never been more important. Through initiatives like the National Welding League for Women 2026, Fronius India Private Limited is encouraging more women to step into welding, one of the most fundamental skills powering modern industry. In this conversation with Machine Maker, Vishwanath Kamath, Managing Director of Fronius India, speaks about the inspiration behind the initiative and why empowering women welders is critical for the future of manufacturing.
For Vishwanath Kamath, the initiative is part of a larger vision to build a more inclusive manufacturing industry where skill and passion transcend traditional boundaries.“As we gear up for NWL 2026 – National Welding League for Women, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible passion, precision, and perseverance each one of you brings to the world of welding,” Mr Kamath shares.
His message resonates deeply with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: “Give to Gain.”“In welding, every spark you give lights the way for stronger structures, safer products, and a more resilient manufacturing ecosystem,” he explains. “And in return, you gain mastery, confidence, and the pride of shaping something that lasts.”
Breaking Stereotypes in Manufacturing
Welding has long been seen as a male-dominated profession. Yet across India, women are increasingly stepping into shop floors, training centres, and engineering workshops, proving that skill, discipline, and craftsmanship know no gender.
The National Welding League for Women aims to accelerate this shift.Organised in collaboration with the American Welding Society India Section and industry partners such as Rolex Machinery Corporation, MPP Technologies, TTP Technologies, and C V Raman Global University, the league provides a national stage for aspiring women welders.
The competition will bring together participants from technical institutes, training centres, and industry, allowing them to demonstrate their welding skills under professional evaluation.But beyond competition, the initiative carries a deeper purpose: building confidence and recognition for women in manufacturing.
“Be proud of your welding skills,” Mr Kamath emphasizes..“Your craftsmanship is more than a technical ability;it’s an art, a discipline, and a foundation upon which our entire industry stands.”
Skill Development as the Foundation
For Fronius India, this initiative aligns with the company’s long-standing focus on skill development through its FACT – Fronius & Academia Centre for Skill Training program.Over the years, Fronius has worked closely with training institutes and universities to develop skilled welding professionals who can meet the quality expectations of modern manufacturing.By introducing NWL 2026, the company is extending that ecosystem further, creating a platform where talent can be identified, celebrated, and nurtured.
“Whether you’re just beginning your welding journey or you’ve spent years perfecting your craft, remember that you are a key player in manufacturing,” Mr Kamath says.
“Your role is not just important, it’s indispensable.”
His words highlight an important truth: welding remains one of the most critical skills that underpin industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, energy, and heavy engineering.
Building Confidence and Community
Another key aspect of the National Welding League is the sense of community it aims to foster.Participants are not merely competing;they are connecting with mentors, industry leaders, and fellow professionals who share the same passion for welding.“At NWL 2026, we celebrate you; your skill, your spirit, and your unwavering dedication,” Mr Kamath says.
The league also serves as a powerful source of inspiration for the next generation. By highlighting the achievements of women who are excelling in welding, the platform sends a strong message to young learners and trainees across technical institutes: that manufacturing is a space where talent and determination matter far more than stereotypes.The philosophy of “Give to Gain” resonates strongly with this journey, reflecting how dedication to one’s craft and community strengthens the entire manufacturing ecosystem. As Mr Kamath puts it, “When we give our best to our work, our teams, and our community, we gain a stronger, more inclusive, and more innovative future.”
A Spark for the Future of Manufacturing
As manufacturing evolves toward automation, robotics, and digitally connected production systems, skilled human expertise continues to remain indispensable. Even in advanced production environments, processes like precision welding demand judgement, craftsmanship, and attention to detail; qualities that are developed through experience, training, and discipline. By empowering women welders, initiatives like NWL 2026 contribute not only to gender inclusion but also to the broader goal of building a stronger and more resilient manufacturing workforce for India.
For Mr Kamath, the vision is clear:“Let’s continue to lift each other up, champion excellence, and inspire the next generation of welders around the world,” he says. And with that message, he leaves participants with a powerful reminder: “Here’s to skill. Here’s to strength. Here’s to the spark within each of you.”
