Today we introduce Leon, who is in his second year of training as an industrial mechanic in maintenance. After graduating from secondary school, he initially started a different apprenticeship, but quickly realized that it wasn't right for him. He found out about EPROPLAST through friends and online research – and applied immediately.
Why this profession?
“It was important to me that the job offered prospects, was enjoyable, and provided opportunities for further training. Here, I found exactly that—and even more than I expected.”
Training better than expected.
Leon says that his expectations have been exceeded: “I have variety almost every day—that's exactly what I wanted. Maintenance, troubleshooting, inspections, repairs, working with electricians and mechatronics engineers, working on conveyor belts and blow molding machines—I've been everywhere.”
He also benefits privately: “I come from the city, where you don't do much tinkering. But here I'm constantly learning new things and can now repair or build things myself at home. It's really fun.”
What many people don't know?
An important part of the job is troubleshooting—often on machines that don't reveal what's wrong at first glance. He is particularly proud of his own projects:
“For example, I built sturdy aluminum stands on which production orders are hung. When something like that is used and works, it's a good feeling.”
What EPROPLAST does for him.
“My Germany ticket is paid for, my work clothes are provided and washed here on site. In addition, overtime is accurately recorded using the time clock system – something I didn't have at my previous company.”
Team spirit like in a small family.
Leon works with his trainer, the janitorial team, a mechatronics engineer, and other colleagues. “We laugh a lot, joke around, and can talk about anything—even personal matters. When the atmosphere is good, it makes work easier.”
Stressful or relaxed? Both are possible!
He can't pinpoint the “best day,” but there's one thing he particularly likes:
“When I replace hoses on the injection molding machine, I can work calmly and easily in the tool area. It's a good way to switch off.”
There are funny moments too.
“I was supposed to ask my instructor about a wooden magnet—the boss seemed to be serious about the request. For a moment, I believed that such a thing could really exist. In the end, of course, it was just a joke.”
Challenges? They're part of it.
“The changing room sometimes smells pretty bad after work—that's just part of the job. And it's warm in the halls, especially in summer when repairs are being carried out. But we have showers and work clothes that are washed here. You get used to it—it toughens you up.”
Would you apply again, and do you have any tips?
“Yes. The variety is the main reason. In other areas, you often do the same thing every day. Here, I get to learn about many different areas. I also highly recommend doing an internship beforehand—one to two weeks. Then you can see right away if it's a good fit.”
And how do you work?
“We only have early shifts. A multi-shift system wouldn't suit me. A friend of mine works like that, and I didn't want to. That's why I like it here.”
Your favorite tool?
“The Flex – you can cut and adjust almost anything with it. A really useful tool.”
Goals after training
“I want to get my master's degree and later on also train others—that's definitely my plan.”
