I chose an apprenticeship as an electronics technician with Bystronic because I am interested in new technologies and want a future-oriented profession at the cutting edge of technology. I am completing my four-year vocational apprenticeship at Bystronic's Swiss business location in Niederönz. Here, Bystronic develops and produces its laser and waterjet cutting systems as well as the associated software and automation solutions. I am one of more than 70 apprentices at the location.
My tasks as an apprentice include developing electronic circuits that will later be used in Bystronic's machines. This involves first designing a circuit board on a PC, then I solder the electronic components onto the circuit board and carry out test measurements. Finally, the soldered electronics has to be perfectly programmed. During my apprenticeship I initially worked in production and then changed to the development department. After my apprenticeship, there are many paths I can take. For example, I could study at a higher college of technology or at a university of applied sciences.
A special project during my apprenticeship at Bystronic was the development of a control unit for a lean assembly system. The project involved converting the existing electronics assembly line into a more efficient assembly circle. Thanks to the modification, Bystronic now saves a great deal of time during the assembly of the control PCs for the laser and waterjet cutting systems.
Within the framework of this project, I was able to develop the electronic control unit for the assembly circle and program the associated software. I was supported by my apprenticeship supervisor who offered me useful advice. After our assembly circle had been successfully implemented, it was awarded an innovation prize at a trade congress.
I would encourage anyone who is currently still at school and interested in an apprenticeship with Bystronic to complete a trial apprenticeship. This allows them to gain an advanced insight into the company and into what their future apprenticeship occupation is about.