Lukas Sørensen goes for gold

An interview with the EuroSkills participant from Denmark

Lukas Sørensen

Joiner

Denmark

Why did you decide to become a joiner?

I always knew that I wanted to work with wood. I've always loved wood and I'm particularly interested in the finer woodwork.

How old were you when you became a joiner? Or when you started your apprenticeship?

I was 16 years old (2021) when I started my foundation year 1 training and I will finish my training in spring 2025.

What is the reason why you want to take part in EuroSkills?

It started when I was invited to the DM (Danish Championship) a few years ago. I came 2nd in 2023 and 1st in 2024. And now that I'm competing in EuroSkills on home soil, I naturally want to win gold, but I'm also very happy with a podium finish.

What do you like most about being a joiner?

I like the process that starts in the workshop and in which I am involved from start to finish with the final assembly. It's just fun to see the finished product in the right environment.

Have you completed a task/project that you think is particularly cool - if so, which one?

I built a bookshelf for a customer, from floor to ceiling. I was there the whole time, sheet metal furniture. Cool project.

What do you want to achieve in your career? - Do you have a dream?

At the moment EuroSkills is the dream, I'm still young, going out and travelling and everything.

What is your favourite Festool product?

The Router. No other router can beat it. Especially the 1400.

What is your favourite type of wood or material to work with?

Solid wood - oak, beautiful wood - hard wood can be difficult to work with, but it's worth it.

Team Denmark with the finished workpiece by Lukas Sørensen

How does the company you work for support your participation in EuroSkills?

My boss Janus is incredibly supportive - he gives me the freedom to train. Of course, he is also interested in me doing well.

How are you preparing for EuroSkills, which will take place in Denmark this year?

Training trips - e.g. recently to Belgium for the championships there. Taking part in other competitions. Lots of training in the workshop. Tasks without preparation from my coach Peter Hansen. National team meetings with mental training. Turning the pressure into something positive, utilising the energy.

What is your best advice to other young craftsmen who want to become as skillfull as you?

You have to really want it and be interested in it. It's rewarding to make something from scratch. It's a beautiful process to make a finished product. Gain as much experience as you can. Once you've built up a foundation of experience, you should listen.

What are you most looking forward to at EuroSkills?

That it's finally starting - from the competition days to the final phase to the completion. It's especially cool that it's taking place in Denmark and hopefully with all the Danish spectators.