New power plant operators for Lower Austria

The dual professional education at VERBUND, training power plant operators to be electricians and metal work technicians, is unique in Europe. Modern educational practices and a practical orientation are the keys to a comprehensively competent staff.

With the traditional presentation of apprenticeship contracts to the training centres in Ybbs-Persenbeug, Kaprun, and Töging, initiation into professional life begins for 39 apprentices. "Even if at the moment the times don't look bright for power plant operators, we still have to plan for the future. The efficient operation of our water power facilities and, with that, the success of the entire company depend essentially on the motivation and quality education of our co-workers. Only then can we successfully meet the many challenges that present themselves in times of energy policy turnaround," asserted Michael Amerer, CEO of VERBUND Hydro Power GmbH and apprentice representative at VERBUND.

"Lower Austria's businesses urgently need well-educated and motivated technical workers. The dual system of on-site practical training and theoretical learning in vocational schools builds the foundation for optimally trained specialised personnel. Our apprentices consistently show their abilities in national and international competitions," emphasised regional minister Stephan Pernkopf.

In-demand professions, outstanding success

In the first year of their four-year apprenticeship training, the prospective power plant operators graduate from one of the three modern VERBUND apprenticeship workshops. Already starting in the second year, the apprentices gain practical experience in one of VERBUND's power plants. VERBUND trains technical personnel as electricians and metalwork technicians in Kaprun and Töging on the Inn River (Germany), as well as in Ybbs-Persenbeug. The graduation rate is almost 100%, while almost 50% of apprentices graduate with distinction, clearer proof of the high quality of technical education.