Education has never been more important than it is today. Young employees are thirsty for knowledge and want to be supported. That means companies providing training have to make more of an effort. Simon Depping, vocational trainer at ABNOX, knows this pays off over the long term: “We need specialists, and we assist their development. As entrepreneurs, we have a responsibility to Switzerland as a place to do business and to society.”
ABNOX has been training people throughout the company's history. Traditionally, trainees have made up a significant proportion of the staff – currently there are six trainees to 44 employees. After originally training polytechnicians and logisticians, the dynamic company has also been offering training for production mechanics, installers, design engineers and commercial employees for several years now. Simon Depping has this to say: “Young people appreciate the industrial environment in which we operate. Our solutions are interesting and are used in attractive end products.” So it is little wonder that technologically curious teenagers get their money's worth here.
Social enrichment
When youths are able to understand the significance of what they do, it also awakens their pride. Colin Felber, Design Engineer in the third year of training, confirms this: “I was received at ABNOX with open arms and had the opportunity to take on productive tasks early on. Making a contribution as part of this friendly team is enjoyable for me!”
While providing training does not produce a financial profit, companies are socially enriched. Simon Depping continues: “For us, training young people is a matter near to our heart, with a great side effect: We always keep up with the times.”
The cost of this commitment must not be underestimated. Six vocational trainers at ABNOX support the trainees, keeping up to date with the latest teaching aids and methods. As an SME with no internal training institution, the company expects trainees to be independent. Colin Felder likes that: “I value the friendly atmosphere, with new challenges every day.” Simon Depping adds: “When someone shows initiative, they can go farther with us than in an institutional apprenticeship.”
Quality begins with people
In order to keep jobs in Switzerland even though the local costs are high, ABNOX recently invested in highly modern assembly lines. As a result, the output was increased and delivery times were reduced with the same number of employees.
However, manufacturing products of high quality primarily depends on qualified personnel. The commitment to trainees is therefore a matter of course at ABNOX – to counteract the shortage of skilled labour, among other things. Additional quality factors include promoting a pleasant work environment and the internal transfer of knowledge. Lasting success depends on open communication at eye level and regular continuing education.
We are happy to inform you about our training programme that has proven itself over many years!