After a standout performance in Vilnius, RNDV speaks with ScaffMag about teamwork, pressure, and what it truly takes to become ScaffChamp champions.
RNDV didn’t just win ScaffChamp 2025 — they set the benchmark. The Lithuanian team delivered a sharp, confident performance that earned them the overall title and the Health & Safety Award, securing their place at the top of Europe’s scaffolding elite.
But as Gintautas Vitkevicius, CEO at RNDV, explained in an exclusive interview with ScaffMag, this wasn’t a one-off effort. It was the product of years of discipline, daily professionalism, and a team culture that treats scaffolding like a serious craft.
Unlike some entrants, RNDV didn’t build a one-off team for the competition. “The ScaffChamp team consists entirely of our daily operational staff,” Vitkevicius said. “We currently employ around 350 scaffolders, and the team was hand-picked from our most experienced scaffolders – many of whom started their careers with us.”
Their captain, a senior scaffolder with a strong record on complex projects, was given full freedom to choose the crew. “He selected individuals based on technical ability, discipline, and team synergy – and the result speaks for itself,” he said. “We’re proud that this team reflects the strength of our day-to-day operations, not just a special lineup built for show.”
Precision, Practice, and Pressure
RNDV approached the competition like professionals. “We treated ScaffChamp like a real championship,” Vitkevicius said. “We held four structured training sessions in the weeks leading up to the event. It wasn’t just about speed – we focused on blueprint reading, working under pressure, and refining our communication.”
That training paid off. When a task didn’t go to plan during the competition, the team didn’t panic. “We paused, communicated, and changed approach. That moment of clarity made the difference between a mistake and a clean execution.”
One unexpected highlight was an on-the-spot decision during the dismantling phase. “We tried a new technique mid-round, something we hadn’t rehearsed. It came from instinct and experience, and it worked so well that other teams started copying it. That moment said a lot about who we are.”
This year wasn’t RNDV’s first ScaffChamp. They debuted in 2024 and came fourth, a strong start that fuelled their determination to improve. “We took the lessons seriously. We reviewed everything, from blueprint interpretation to time management, and adjusted our training approach for 2025. Nothing was left to chance.”
Living and Breathing Safety
Safety has always been a cornerstone of RNDV’s culture, so winning the Health & Safety Award was particularly meaningful. “Safety isn’t just a policy at RNDV, it’s part of our identity,” said Vitkevicius. “We’ve built a culture that runs through every level of the company. From toolbox talks and unannounced site audits to internal awareness campaigns, safety is something we live every day.”
He said the win had boosted morale and reinforced what they stand for. “It’s one thing to be valued by your company, but to be recognised by the wider industry – that’s powerful. It shows that our standards, our work ethic, our culture, they’re visible beyond our own sites.”
More than anything, Vitkevicius hopes RNDV’s story helps raise the profile of the trade itself. “We want people to see scaffolding as a true profession, not just a job. What we do demands coordination, accuracy, and teamwork. Success like this doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from consistent training, strong leadership, and mutual respect.”
So what’s next? RNDV say they’ll be back in 2026 and ready to defend their title. “We know the bar is now higher, but we’re ready for the challenge.”
Vitkevicius also offered some advice for any teams thinking of entering for the first time: “Approach it like a real championship. Train hard, build cohesion, and don’t cut corners on preparation. But also – enjoy it.
It’s more than a competition. It’s a celebration of our craft. Whether you come to win or just to be part of it, it’s an experience you won’t forget.”
