What did you do before your apprenticeship and why did you choose this apprenticeship?
“Before starting my apprenticeship I did my intermediate leaving certificate. However, some mechatronics apprentices also have a higher education or technical college entrance qualification.
I did a number of work placements in different professions. In the end I liked the profession of mechatronics engineer best. It perfectly combines my interest in electronics and my enjoyment of mechanical work.”
What practical tasks can an apprentice expect during their training at Pilz?
“Apprentices can expect lots of different tasks. In mechanics, that’s filing and sawing at first, and then turning/milling or welding later. In electronics it’s soldering or wiring, for example. But it also includes programming or configuration of Pilz products.”
Which departments will an apprentice progress through in the course of their training?
“In the first year you have basic training at GARP, an out-of-house training centre, where you learn the basics of mechanics and electrics. This includes a basic course in mechanics, a course on turning and milling, and a welding course. In electrics you cover house installations, contactor circuits, soldering and programming.
In the second year you start the company-based training programme. This also includes a placement in production. There are also more courses at GARP. After that you start preparing for the exam in the training workshop. In the third year, the departmental placements continue. You not only get to know the departments, you get fully involved in their work too.”
What has been your personal highlight so far in your apprenticeship?
“A particular highlight for me was an external placement at ARENA2036, as part of a training collaboration. But the welding course was also something special.”
How do you find the work environment at Pilz?
“I really like the work environment at Pilz because my colleagues are friendly, and you are very quickly included in the team, even in the specialist departments.”
What do you like in particular about your apprenticeship at Pilz?
“I like the fact that training is never dull, because you progress through the different departments. But the training workshop, flexitime, the great canteen and the apprentice excursion are also great. What’s special about Pilz is the good atmosphere, but also the benefits, such as the reimbursement of travel costs or in-house health care options.”
What are you likely to do next, when you’ve finished your apprenticeship?
“I would really like to be taken on, and perhaps make it to engineer.”
What would you recommend to future apprentices?
“Well, a work placement before you start your apprenticeship makes sense, because you can get to know many of the training areas. Also, you shouldn’t shy away from subjects such as maths or physics, and you need an interest in technology.”