As a former apprentice to becoming an electronics engineer for automation technology, Lars Kiechle has to deal with electrifying challenges and fascinating technology every day. In the interview, he reveals what was particularly appealing to him about training program and his experiences in day-to-day work at Vetter.
Hello, Lars. Would you please briefly introduce yourself?
I am Lars Kiechle, 21, and I finished my apprenticeship as an electronics technician in automation technology a few weeks ago. Apart from a few internships, I have only “really” been with Vetter for two years now, because in our first year of apprenticeships we are full-time electronics technicians at the electronics school in Tettnang.
And why did you just choose that training and Vetter?
I've just always been very interested in technology. And after I graduated from high school in 2019, I wanted to do something practical, not study right away. It was also important to me as a wine gardener to stay here in the area. Of course, Vetter was the perfect choice.
When you talk to others about your training, what do you tell them first?
That my training was very spontaneous and never boring. It would happen that, in the morning, a whole new task comes up. This is sometimes not entirely easy, but it makes the training all the more exciting. Also and especially because there are so many areas in it: software, IT, but also very practical things like wiring or changing out hardware. You just have to be flexible, which is what I like about the training.
What are some of your best experiences – what were the biggest challenges?
My personal highlight was the Smart Factory in the workshop at the training center. In the second year of apprenticeship, I was allowed to build a project myself with three other apprentices. With everything that goes with it – conveyor belt, cylinder and display. Everyone had their job and the interaction was a great experience. We also designed a robot ourselves. We were able to be really creative and do a lot ourselves. But of course the instructors have always been happy to help us with questions. And really, I can bolt down various things myself and rely on experienced colleagues.
A major challenge recently was the repair of an important machine in production. At first it seemed like a little thing, but then it grew into a two-week project, for some of it, six people worked on it. We also had to tinker at other systems for a very long time before we could find the fault. Things like that are very challenging.
My personal highlight was the Smart Factory in the workshop at the training center. In the second year of apprenticeship, I was allowed to build a project myself with three other apprentices. With everything that goes with it – conveyor belt, cylinder and display.
Lars Kiechle, Specialist in Automation Technology
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Since my second year of apprenticeship, my working day has always started at 7 AM. At the beginning, mostly in the training workshop, where we work on smaller projects, for example a traffic light control or a sluice lock control. From the third year of training, we will go to the various departments, where we will always be fully involved for three months. This starts with a team meeting where the projects and tasks of the day are discussed. Of course, then many small things come up spontaneously, where you have to change an outlet or get some system running again. I think it's very nice that we have breakfast and lunch together with the department. Quitting time is scheduled at 4 PM – unless there are important projects or tasks ahead, then of course we will work longer.
What has been your highlight this week?
I was allowed to wire a test stand for a circular conveyor. This moves into the correct position with the aid of vibration and shape of the circular conveyor bowl, for example, the plungers of syringes. The feeling, when everything works and runs smoothly, is of course a highlight. There are some minor corrections now, but it's really fun to work together, to keep on tinkering and improve.
Do you use any special Vetter benefit or training offer? If so, which ones?
Since I don't have far to go from Weingarten, and I'm cycling to work, I'll probably get a JobRad soon. I also love the new “Get-in-touch” offer for our community of apprentices and students. And with “Vetter goes social” I will also be there in the future!
