Behind the scenes at BOMAFA: Trainee Max interviews metalworker

My name is Max, and I'm currently in the middle of my training program at BOMAFA. My area of specialization is business administration.

When I was hired, I was forewarned that the last trainee who was hired in the sales department had left big shoes to fill and had set a high standard to follow, having quickly acclimated and already become a fully recognized member of the sales team within just 2.5 years of training.

For whatever reason, it was easy for me to fill those shoes and confidently leave my mark on the international stage.

I believe that the close collaboration among all sales representatives within the company has created a culture of eagerness to learn and continuous improvement. The trust and support of the management team have provided me with the flexibility to fully engage in my work . Furthermore, my own interest and desire to observe and learn as much as possible have undoubtedly contributed to my success.

Today, I have the opportunity to take on a lot of responsibility, be included in important discussions, and have my opinions valued. So it's actually an ideal situation for trainees: having the freedom to act with support available when needed.

Now I was supposed to interview one of our metalworkers regarding an offer, and I had some questions that needed to be clarified. I had already spent a few days in this section during my onboarding period, but I didn't know my colleagues very well. I had been able to get a picture of them, but as it turned out, that was completely wrong.

My image was stereotypical: blue-collar, slightly grumpy, hard-working, and always a bit distant in the direction of administration. Training in metalworking, years of service with the company, craftsmen with technical understanding, and a somewhat unusual communication style

Even though our conversation began as expected, with some difficulties, it quickly became apparent that I had a completely wrong impression of the job of a metalworker at BOMAFA.

In front of me sat the craftsman, who could also get loud at times. But when he realized the direction my technical questions were taking, that changed completely.

What impressed me the most was the diversity of his tasks and the range of his knowledge. After our conversation, I had a much better understanding of things that were previously only vaguely clear to me as a non-technical person.

With him, I was suddenly in the middle of production and Montage abroad . Of course, BOMAFA's metalworkers travel a lot and globally if they want to. But they are also ambassadors for the company, learning the languages necessary to communicate anywhere they go.

At BOMAFA, hydraulic technicians and valve fitters work hand in hand. Extensive training is required, but even after completing their regular training, there is still much experience to be gained, as precise knowledge of valves and hydraulics is required. In addition, a certain level of manual dexterity is necessary.

The daily routines are extremely varied, and the fields of tasks are as well. This includes designing new valves, repairing and maintaining existing ones, as well as conducting on-site inspections, analyses, and consultations. Regional knowledge is also essential, as the installation of valves in Asia, North Africa, or Germany can vary significantly.

"Max, you know, many customers have known us technicians for several years; we have built long-lasting business relationships. It makes a difference, and it feels really good."

We parted ways with a sense of satisfaction. I was glad I had approached the right person for my questions, and he was pleased to have been recognized as an expert in his field. It was clear that our conversation had strengthened our mutual understanding and respect. I knew that this wouldn't be the last time we talked.