Apprenticeship as a process mechanic in glass technology
‘ A well-rounded affair ‘ Denise, training as a process mechanic in glass technology at Docter Optics
What will you learn in your apprenticeship?
Glass is the most important material for optics. I’m learning how to use machines in the glass industry, including how to set up the machines that process glass. For example, we shape large blocks of glass into small round discs, which are then processed into lenses. We use the machines to saw, mill or ‘round’ the glass until it has the desired shape. At the machine, we check the results with our measuring equipment before the quality manager checks again in more detail.
What products do you manufacture?
We use the machines to produce semi-finished optical products in a wide variety of shapes. These can be prototypes or series. Semi-finished products are raw parts that are further processed by our customers. They are then used, for example, in space technology for satellites, in microscopes or X-ray equipment. The spectrum ranges from very small parts with permissible deviations in the hundredths of a millimetre to very large workpieces.
What do you particularly enjoy about your work?
My work is very varied and no two days are the same here. Due to the different dimensions and the many different types of glass, each component has to be handled and processed slightly differently. Of course, this requires precision as well as an interest in and understanding of glass as a material.
And why did you choose this profession?
Because I find it interesting what you can do with glass as a material and how differently you can process it. I got my fascination for glass from my father. He also completed a similar apprenticeship and probably passed on his fascination for the material to me. After my internship here, I received a very warm and friendly welcome and was fully integrated into the processes. The employees their took time for me and explained everything patiently. In the future, I could also do a training licence and train apprentices myself. There is also the option of studying in the field of
glass at a university of applied sciences.
Facts and figures about training as a process mechanic in glass technology
- Duration of the apprenticeship: 3 years
- Requirements: at least secondary school leaving certificate
- Apprenticeship salary: between € 600 and € 900