When people think of steel construction, many initially think only of physical labour, but precision work plays just as important a role.

Luke
Apprentice Mechanical Design Technician
Filip Warchalowski / ZÜBLIN
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Lukas talks about his apprenticeship as a construction fitter at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau.

Lukas is doing his apprenticeship as a structural fitter at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau. In this interview, he explains why he is so enthusiastic about the hands-on work involved in steel construction, what career opportunities are open to him once he has completed his apprenticeship, and why it feels so special to see the finished structures with his own eyes later on.

Lukas, please introduce yourself briefly.

My name is Lukas, I’m 22 years old, and I’m doing my apprenticeship as a construction fitter at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau. Once I’ve completed my apprenticeship, I’ll be working in the assembly department at our site in Senftenberg.

Why did you decide to train as a mechanical fitter?

Actually, I’d originally planned to go into automotive engineering. But when I got a taste of steel construction, I was surprised at just how practical the work is here.

  • It was important to me to learn a trade where you play an active part and can see, at the end of the day, what you’ve achieved.

I chose ZÜBLIN Stahlbau because I have a secure job here, I can develop my skills and get to know different areas of the business. The fact that the site is easily accessible was also a plus for me. 

What is your typical working day like?

My day usually begins with a brief handover, during which we discuss the tasks ahead. After that, I set up my workstation.

Depending on the job, I saw, cut or weld components, drill holes, bend and edge sheet metal, or assemble steel beams and structures. It is precisely this variety that makes my day-to-day work so varied.

What makes an apprenticeship at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau special?

I found the wide range of topics particularly exciting. During my apprenticeship, I was introduced to different areas of metalworking and learnt various welding techniques.

Our training workshop was also a real advantage for me. There, I was able to try out many of the work processes for myself and gain practical experience. I also found the insights into automated production lines particularly interesting. This allowed me to discover different aspects of the profession.

What do you love about your job?

I find it particularly impressive to see completed structures and to know that I have played a part in them. Without steel construction, many halls, bridges and other large structures would never have been built at all. 

  • I get to work on large-scale projects with my own hands and see the results of my work later on.

What skills should you have for this job?

Manual dexterity, the ability to work as part of a team and flexibility are important. Many tasks can only be tackled as a team. Furthermore, spatial awareness helps you to visualise the final structure whilst you are still in the process of making it.

What challenges did you have to overcome during your training?

At first, maths was a challenge for me. However, through practice and support during my training, I have steadily improved. I have also learnt how important accuracy and attention to detail are in my profession.

What is the working atmosphere like at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau?

There’s a great team spirit. My colleagues support one another and are always on hand to offer advice and help. Particularly during my training, I was always able to ask questions and count on my colleagues’ support. 

What have you learnt from the training, and where do you see yourself in the future?

I have learnt to work with metal professionally and have developed a good understanding of various techniques. This even helps me in my everyday life, for example with minor repairs. The apprenticeship has shown me how important it is to set yourself goals and stick to them. 

After completing my apprenticeship, I’ll be taken on in the collaboration department. I’d like to continue working there over the next few years and gain even more experience. In the long term, I can see myself progressing to become a foreman or even exploring other areas. 

Why would you recommend this training course to others?

I would recommend this training programme to anyone who wants to keep learning new things and developing personally. What I particularly like is that I was able to get involved in practical work right from the start and have taken on more responsibility step by step. Anyone who enjoys working with their hands and wants to see what they’ve created at the end of the day will find this an exciting career with good prospects for the future.

Meet Lukas in the video and find out more about his training as a construction fitter:

Video thumbnail: Lukas, training as a construction fitter Filip Warchalowski / ZÜBLIN
Strength meets precision: Apprenticeship as a Design Mechanic at ZÜBLIN Stahlbau