Trainees like these are the real doers

Why are practical projects so important for apprentices? "Because you learn the most when you actually do it yourself," agree the three glass process engineers from Lisec, Florian Buchberger, Severin Gassner and Lukas Schuller. In cooperation with MakerSpace[A] in Amstetten - an association for collaborative work in a technical environment - the three apprentices were able to apply what they had learnt so far, from planning to installation, and get hands-on with the glass front that was used in the extension of the MakerSpace[A] building.

Andreas Mader was involved in this project in a dual role, namely as Lisec Product Manager for Logistics and a committed MakerSpace[A] member, and is delighted with the collaboration: "The apprentices were very committed and motivated, and the different approaches to discussions and ideas also had lasting added value for me."

See also: Glass Natter from Regensburg: Strong women in glass

After an on-site inspection, the three glass process engineers were able to put all their theoretical knowledge into practice. "We did everything ourselves, from the first sketch or draft to drawing plans and installation," says Severin Gassner. "With the support of the vocational trainers and the professionals at Lisec, of course."

MakerSpace[A]

The first idea is not always the best

The team of glass process technician apprentices has also learnt that not everything always goes according to plan and that the first idea may not always be the best. "But that's exactly what makes the whole thing so interesting. You learn instantly from your mistakes and also have to consider things like budget limits, legal requirements, regulations etc.," says Lukas Schuller. "But you can do anything as a team."

After the intensive planning phase in April, the glass front was installed in the second week of June. Here, too, there was ongoing coordination to support the apprentices. "The installation worked really well. We always got quick answers to any queries. This was particularly helpful when it came to lifting the glass panes - it's more difficult than you might think at first," says Florian Buchberger.

With a total of seven panes of glass, each of which required six people to transport, installation was actually a key point in the planning of this project.

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MakerSpace[A] board member Günther Sterlike also had words of praise for the project: "The generous support from Lisec, especially through the cooperation with the apprentices, is invaluable for us at MakerSpace[A]. It's refreshing to see young talent working together and enriching our project."

The new apprentice trainer Stefan Fröschl also sees a clear focus on practical projects for the apprentices in the future: "Practical exercises are perfect for the apprentices. Not only the practical relevance, but also the social component plays an important role - teamwork with adults at eye level!"

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