Training at MAPAL
Benedikt Licht sheds light on his training as a precision toolmaker, which is helping him turn his hobby into a career.
He fixes metal pieces in manually or digitally-controlled grinding machines, measures the grinding angle and monitors proceedings with a keen eye. In his training as a precision toolmaker, Benedikt Licht whips worn and torn tools back into shape.
"We make machine tools like milling cutters and drills and repair them or regrind them if they've gone blunt, for instance", Benedikt sums up his job. Following the advice of a current colleague, he applied for a precision toolmaking apprenticeship at BECK in Winterlingen back in 2018. MAPAL's subsidiary specialises in the manufacture of multi-bladed reamers.
"I make models with my father in my spare time. That's why I was looking for a job where I could use my craftsmanship skills and my knack for precision". That's how Benedikt explains the thinking behind his decision. For a while, a career as an industrial mechanic was also on his shortlist. However, he ultimately opted for this demanding role behind the grinder – where the very last micrometre can make the difference.
In the first year of his apprenticeship, he worked in the training workshop, where he was mostly able to work on milling cutters in the universal grinder. Once he passed his interim examination, he spent time in various areas of production – from repairs and cylindrical grinding to CNC tool grinding. "You get to spend always about two or three months in each department, which gives you a great insight into day-to-day production and how versatile the job is", explains Benedikt.
Discover exciting opportunities with us.
Identification through performance
Usually, his working day starts at 7 a.m. – and with the knowledge that there's always something different in store. Sometimes the order is already ready and all he has to do is pile up and measure parts. Sometimes he dresses a grinding wheel or prepares upcoming orders. Benedikt particularly enjoys the multifaceted nature of his training. He's also been able to enjoy a few small successes, which he remembers with a smile. For instance, at the beginning of his training, he built a model car that he was allowed to take home. In close collaboration with the other trainees, he designed an ergonomic workstation for production, including a bench grinder, that's still in everyday use. "It makes me really proud when I walk past it and I know I was involved in making that happen", says Benedikt. In his current project, he's programming the grab mechanism for the loader for a CNC milling machine. With this function, the machine reinserts the parts automatically, which makes production much more efficient, as employees can be setting up or running other machinery in the time they save. He's now excited about the results of the grabbing mechanisms and wants to find out how they work in the machine. From the design to the finished article – he will then have done it all by himself.
Working with friends
The role of foreman in his sights
Join us!
Discover exciting opportunities with us.
Entry opportunities for school pupils
School-leaving qualifications within reach: together as you embark on your working life & career
You’ll soon be starting your professional career – and with it a new chapter in your life.
Find out which training and study opportunities you have at MAPAL as well as what the requirements are and which dates and formalities you need to observe. We support you with helpful tips for making your application strong.
