From taster placement to final exam

Sascha, what do you look for when someone is interested in an apprenticeship at Erich Keller?

Nobody has to be able to do everything at the start. What matters is that someone shows interest, is reliable and genuinely wants to know how our trade works. I look at whether someone is attentive, asks questions, works carefully and can contribute in a team. Manual skill helps, of course – but a lot is learned step by step.

What do young people experience during a taster placement?

They get an honest insight into our everyday work. They see the workshop, meet people from the team and get to try simple tasks themselves. It is important to me that they do not just watch but feel how precise and varied our work is. After a taster placement both sides should be better able to judge whether it fits.

What makes an apprenticeship at Erich Keller special?

Our apprentices do not only work on practice pieces. They get an insight into real projects – interior fit-outs, furniture, system workstations, technical products and planning. That way they understand early on what their work is needed for. They also learn that quality does not come from the hand alone, but also from preparation, concentration and responsibility.

How do you support the apprentices during their training?

I support them from the first day through to the final examination. At the beginning it is about giving them confidence and building the basics properly. Over time more demanding work and more personal responsibility are added. We regularly review where someone stands, what is going well and where support is still needed. What matters is that the apprentices can develop – professionally and personally.

What should apprentices bring with them for the training to succeed?

Curiosity, perseverance and the willingness to look closely. In our trade, care counts. You have to listen, ask questions and sometimes stick with it when something does not work straight away. Anyone who enjoys material, technology, design and clean work brings a good basis with them.

What prospects do apprentices have after their training?

After the apprenticeship many paths are open. Some stay in the workshop or go out on installation. Others develop towards CNC, work preparation, planning, project management or further education. That is the beauty of the training: it provides a solid foundation. Anyone who is motivated and wants to take responsibility can build a great deal on it.

What would you say to young people who are unsure whether to apply?

Just come for a taster placement. You only realise many things once you have seen the company and talked to the people. Nobody expects you to know everything already. What matters is being open and wanting to find out whether the trade and Erich Keller suit you.