"If you never ask, you'll never know" – traineeship in plastics extrusion
12.10.2021
There is a desperate need for skilled workers in the plastics industry. Yet the sector has a lot to offer. Reifenhäuser GmbH also proves this with its diverse range of apprenticeships. Young people can train as electronics technicians, industrial mechanics or warehouse logistics specialists at the expert for plastics extrusion. An important prerequisite for this: don't be afraid to ask questions!
In an interview with K-MAG, Lukas Block talks about why a traineeship as an electronics technician is just right for him, what it looks like and how he would convince other young people to pursue such a career.
Mr. Block, why did you decide on a skilled trade?
Lukas Block: I chose a technical profession because I like working with my hands and I wouldn't enjoy an office job. In general, I've always found electronics itself exciting.
Products and exhibitors around extruders and extrusion lines
- Extruders
- Single screw extruders
- Twin screw extruders
- Multiple screw extruders
- Ram extruders
- Extrusion lines
You work in a company that manufactures plastics machinery – what do you notice about the plastics industry?
Block: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important. And so, for the sake of the environment, research into recyclable plastics is becoming more and more important.
What does your traineeship at Reifenhäuser look like?
Block: The traineeship at Reifenhäuser starts with a basic course in metal technology. After that, you are taught the basics of electrical engineering and then get further into the subject. After the first year, you are then transferred to the company and start the operational run through the individual departments.
Where do you see yourself in five years? What are your plans for the future?
Block: In five years, I'd like to do my master's degree or become a technician, and then move up the ladder. In the time in between, I will continue to work at Reifenhäuser and set up plants.
A student is thinking about what kind of career he should persue. How would you convince him of your traineeship?
Block: The profession of an electronics technician for industrial engineering is very versatile. You can now work in pretty much any industry – after the necessary retraining and courses. What's more, there's always something new coming onto the market. So it never gets boring or monotonous. The profession is demanding, but it's also a lot of fun.