Are you fascinated by machines and how things are made? Do you like working with your hands? And are you good at it? Then check out our metal technology apprenticeship! Advances in technology are making the career more challenging – and exciting. It’s a totally future-proof job and one that we can’t do without as society becomes more digitalized and automated. We’re looking for our next generation of metal technicians. Apply now!
Read this blog post to learn more about the apprenticeship and get to know two of our metal technology apprentices. If you’d like to see for yourself what apprenticeships are all about, visit our Apprentice Open Day or stop by the S-Bim job fair in Graz.
The apprenticeship program at KNAPP
KNAPP has a long tradition of training apprentices – for over 30 years, in fact, in both Hart bei Graz and Leoben. As a state-honored training company, it’s important to us that our apprentices receive excellent training in both their chosen field and in soft skills. We have about 140 apprentices in training in five different apprenticeships:
- Metal technology (Graz)
- Mechatronics (Graz and Leoben)
- Industrial office administration (Graz)
- Application development – coding (Graz)
- Information technology (Graz and Leoben)
KNAPP has been training apprentices in metal technology since 2000, though back then, the profession was called mechanical engineering. Today, we have 32 metal technology apprentices who get to know different technologies and departments during their training.
Want to check out our apprentice workshop? Take the 360° virtual tour and learn more about our apprenticeship professions! Virtual tour of the apprentice workshop
An apprenticeship as a metal technician
Doing an apprenticeship in metal technology will make you an expert in the mechanical construction of our logistics systems or in building and drawing parts and machines. You’ll jump right into the world of work and receive a top-tier education.
The metal technology apprenticeship with mechanical engineering as the core module lasts 3.5 years. In addition to the core module, you’ll get to choose between automation technology and design engineering as your specialty. You’ll learn a wide range of practical skills by working in different departments. In particular, you’ll learn how to digitally design parts using CAD and CAM systems before creating them in real life. To do that, you’ll process different metals manually and using cutting-edge CNC (computer numerical control) machining techniques such as milling, grinding and turning.
A future-proof career
For centuries, people have been building and using machines to make their lives easier. Metal technicians are pros at developing, manufacturing, assembling, programming, starting up and documenting machines. Their knowledge can be used in many different areas. The job is future-proof because specialists like metal technicians play an important role in developing and implementing new technologies. Their expertise is wanted all over the world, but you don’t have to look far to find a good job. Metal technicians are in high demand right here in Styria, for example, because our metalworking industry is so strong. What’s more, a wide range of positions are open to our apprentices after they complete their apprenticeships. You might find your home in production, development or design engineering – or maybe you’ll become an installation supervisor or even a department head. The sky is the limit!
And what do our apprentices have to say?
We interviewed two of our metal technology apprentices who are in their second year of their apprenticeship. Nadine Feiertag and Mark Kremer will tell you about why they picked this profession and about what their training is like.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Nadine: I never knew exactly what I wanted to do, but when I was a kid, my grandpa always brought me old washing machines that I liked taking apart.
Mark: An inventor because both of my grandpas were always doing DIY at home.
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship in metal technology?
Nadine: Before this, I completed an apprenticeship to be a cook. A family member got me into tech by chance.
Mark: I did two semesters of mechanical engineering at university and wanted to stay in the field.
What was the application process like? What tips do you have for other applicants?
Nadine: When I was in vocational school, the company I was doing my apprenticeship at closed. Since some KNAPP apprentices held a presentation at my school, I had a chance to introduce myself to the apprentice trainers. After that, I immediately sent off my application, and after my taster placement, I was warmly accepted.
Mark: The application process was really clear and simple. We were told everything we needed to know during the taster placement. My tip for your application is to be honest and to apply early.
What does your average day at work look like?
Nadine: Working in the departments starts off with tasks like assembling small components. After a while, I was allowed to help set up our machines, to connect their cables and to test their function.
Mark: I don’t really have an average day since each day is different. It varies a lot since we’re always working with different departments or in the apprentice workshop.
What are three tools you can’t live without?
Nadine: Screwdriver. Tape measure. Cordless screwdriver.
Mark: Vernier caliper. Triangle. Steel square.
How is being an apprentice different for you than being in school?
Nadine: I’ve learned to be a lot more confident and have gotten better at dealing with other people.
Mark: As an apprentice, you’re much more independent. You can plan your own tasks – in consultation with the person you’re working with, of course.
Which three words would best describe your job?
Nadine: Interesting. Varied. Sometimes oily.
Mark: Varied. Important. Creative.
Have you gone abroad or done any language trips?
Nadine: Not yet.
Mark: I spent four weeks in Fukuoka, Japan this year for my apprenticeship and as part of an Erasmus internship.
Are you interested in combining your apprenticeship with the Matura?
Nadine: Yes, definitely.
Mark: I did the Matura before my apprenticeship and will start studying at university alongside my apprenticeship in fall 2024.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Nadine: Done with my apprenticeship and working in my favorite department, maybe studying mechanical engineering on the side.
Mark: With my apprenticeship and bachelor’s degree completed, maybe working toward my master’s.
What’s a highlight of your time at KNAPP so far?
Nadine: My application process, because I was accepted so quickly.
Mark: This year’s team building event at Lake Millstatt.
Which KNAPP benefits do you appreciate the most?
Nadine: Getting a discount on lunch. Our sports classes every Friday are also a nice change of pace.
Mark: The wide selection of lunch menus at our cafeteria.
What part of your job do you find especially fun?
Nadine: The wide range of things I get to see and do at work. It never gets old.
Mark: Working on my own projects and on the entire process of creating a new product.
Why do you enjoy working at KNAPP?
Nadine: The work environment is great. I learn a lot, there are a lot of benefits, and the hours are good.
Mark: We’re like a big family who don’t just work together, but have fun too.
Find out more about our apprenticeship program here
Apprentice Open Day, October 18, 2024
Every year, over 150 visitors take the opportunity to learn more about apprenticeships at KNAPP during our Apprentice Open Day. This year’s event includes a tour of the company campus that finishes with current apprentices introducing the apprentice workshop and classrooms. Different stations will be set up, each explaining one of the apprenticeships. To wrap it all up, trainers and apprentices will share their own experiences and first-hand details. You can register for the event here.
Visit us at S-Bim
The S-Bim fair in Graz is the largest educational fair in Styria and provides information on schools and jobs. It will take place in Hall A at the Messe Graz fairgrounds from Thursday, Oct. 10 to Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. You can visit us at stand number L535. Our apprentices and apprentice trainers will be happy to tell you more about the different apprentice professions available at KNAPP!
Interested in an apprenticeship at KNAPP?
You can find more information on our apprenticeship programs and the open spots here!
Further reading recommendations
