Jana shows what's possible. The next group of apprentices will build on that.

The moment Jana realized that she could not only keep up but actually be really good came as early as her first year of vocational school. Her team leader praised her welding work—and from that point on, she knew: This is my craft. What followed was no flash in the pan: For three years in a row, Jana was at the top of her class at vocational school.

“It’s possible, and I want it,” says Jana. For her, these successes weren’t additional pressure, but rather motivation. Especially during challenging phases, working as part of a team, gaining practical experience, and having the opportunity to work increasingly independently helped her.

Today, Jana is looking ahead: She wants to continue her education as much as possible, without ever standing still. The next step: the master craftsman’s exam. Her goal is clear—to continue working in the trades and to be a role model for others, just as her team was for her.

What does she consider crucial for achieving this? Motivation, initiative, and the willingness to think for herself.

Four Voices from Everyday Apprenticeship Life

Jana’s journey is not an isolated case. Four current apprentices also demonstrate how responsibility, hands-on experience, and teamwork shape everyday apprenticeship life at Gföllner.

Julian Kaufmann, 1st-year electrical engineering apprentice, built his own LED sign as one of his first projects. What was challenging at first quickly became his first sense of accomplishment. He particularly appreciates that he’s already being given responsibility in his first year of apprenticeship. For him, a good start depends on interest, a willingness to learn, and asking questions.

Leonie Großfurtner, first-year metalworking apprentice, began working on roof and floor frames. She was particularly impressed by how quickly individual work steps come together to form a finished component. Her initial concern that, as a young woman in her first year of apprenticeship, she might not be taken seriously proved unfounded. For her, trust and patience are crucial.

Marie Mairhuber, 4th-year electrical engineering apprentice, gained her first hands-on experience connecting lamps and electrical components. Today, she works independently on projects for the Austrian Armed Forces and international clients. Problem-solving skills, initiative, and meticulous craftsmanship are particularly important to her.

Paul Reim, a third-year apprentice in automotive engineering, completed a container frame within two days early on in his apprenticeship—a defining first taste of success. He particularly values the varied assignments in different departments and the trust placed in him by experienced professionals. His advice: Stay patient and don’t give up.

Whether in the first or fourth year of apprenticeship, in metalworking, electrical, or automotive engineering: At #teamgfoellner, training begins with trust. Apprentices take on responsibility step by step, develop independence, and learn to use challenges as part of their professional development.

This is how the expertise is built upon which the next generation of skilled workers will rely.