Tool mechanics Eike Riechmann, Nils Schwarze and Lukas Horstmann (from left to right) work in the tool shop at our two Minden sites. In this interview, they explain what makes their work so special and what opportunities WAGO offers beyond the daily work routine.
Let's start with the most important question: What tasks do you have as a tool mechanic (m/w/d) at WAGO?
Eike Riechmann: We are basically concerned with repairing, optimizing and constructing new tools for production. To do this, we use high-precision, modern machine tools from different technology sectors related to the fields of activity that we became familiarized with during training.
Nils Schwarze: The tools you process differ depending on their location and age, the item to be produced and the quantity to be produced. In Päpinghausen, tools for stamping and forming technology are primarily handled, while in Minden, tools for injection molding are more commonly used. In addition, there are specialist departments that deal with follow-on composities, punching/bending, wire erosion, grinding and milling – here everyone can do exactly what they do best. Changes within the tool shop are also possible if you want to reorient or further your career.
Lukas Horstmann: As we have a large number of technical departments, we also have corresponding experts for various fields in each team. However, we are always happy about the know-how of our new colleagues. Ideas or suggestions for improving processes or methods are readily embraced – after all, it makes work easier for all of us. Further development is welcome in our Tool Shop.
And what does familiarization training look like for new employees (m/w/d) in the tool shop?
Eike Riechmann: We draw up an individual work familiarization program for every new member of the team. This naturally contains general information about WAGO, production and toolmaking. In addition, there are workshops and training sessions that are specifically designed to prepare you for work in your particular area – this section is adapted to every new employee. Apart from this, the new employees are introduced to their contact persons in all other areas and at the points of contact to other areas.
In general, we are always in the process of adapting and keeping the work familiarization programs up to date.
What about occupational health and safety at WAGO?
Nils Schwarze: WAGO always places great value on occupational health and safety – and not just in production. None of the companies that I know have integrated this topic so consistently as WAGO. Any missing protective clothing or security vulnerabilities are pointed out immediately. Authorized persons ensure that their employees follow the guidelines and wear protective clothing as required.
Lukas Horstmann: That's right. Without safety shoes you cannot enter the tool shop at all, or you must leave at once – and this includes WAGO employees. There are specially marked paths for guided tours in the production area, and participants must always wear safety vests.
In addition, WAGO obligates all employees to regular training on occupational health and safety to always keep them up to date.
We've now heard quite a bit about your work and what new employees (m/w/d) can expect – but why is tool making so important to WAGO?
Eike Riechmann: Our tools are the centerpiece of production. If tools are missing or damaged, production comes to a standstill, meaning we cannot sell any products. Construction and development of tools is becoming more and more complex and complicated, meaning that some individual tools can be very expensive. In some cases, the large tools for injection molding are unique and cannot be easily replaced. Storage of the tools shows how important they are: They are stored in a high-bay warehouse in a fire-safe area.
As I said, nothing works in production without tools. We therefore really carry great responsibility in the company for maintenance and servicing of the tools.
The job of tool mechanic (m/w/d) is therefore fundamentally very essential. But why did you choose WAGO? What makes working here so special?
Lukas Horstmann: I have always been inherently interested in technology and enjoyed working with computers and the like. After completing a summer break job and an internship at WAGO, I decided to start my apprenticeship training here as well. I've always felt well supported by the company, both during this time and in my day-to-day work. It is always possible to learn about new technologies, processes and machines. WAGO is always “up to date” when it comes to technology, and this also helps me to also expand my expertise and knowledge. External training is also offered, during which, for example, you visit the machine manufacturers to spend a week intensively getting to know their latest machines and methods – which also brings a breath of fresh air to your work. I just think it’s great that I have the opportunity to always work with new machines and set them up.
Eike Riechmann: The variety of work at WAGO is what makes it so interesting for me. In addition, everyone has the opportunity to progress and develop beyond their horizons – for example, to become a master craftsman or technician. The company is happy to support you in this.
Nils Schwarze: For me, that’s the best thing about WAGO: You get the support you meed. Regardless of whether it's about work or in your private life. If you have to change shifts for personal reasons, or if you want to take time off for master training, this usually isn’t a problem, as long as you coordinate everything with your colleagues and the supervisor.
WAGO is simply a company in which you want to stay until the end, because the framework conditions are right and you experience mutual support instead of having obstacles put in your way.
Can you cite a few examples for these points that are outside of your day-to-day work?
Lukas Horstmann: It is especially nice for me, for example, that there is the possibility of extended parental leave (four months) – although this is still unusual in production, especially for fathers. The HR department manages all the necessary steps: When do I have to apply for what? What do I need to know? With the help of WAGO, all this was much easier to take care of.
And even with my supervisor, there were no problems, but instead much support. It was then agreed how to divide the four months and who would take over my work during that time. There's a solution for almost everything.
Nils Schwarze: In addition to my normal job, I took on the role of team coordinator for my shift this year. This function serves as a point of contact between shift supervisors and employees and, to a certain extent, also includes management responsibilities. For me, this was the first step in determining whether these tasks appealed to me and whether I wanted to complete these and become a master craftsman.
The nice thing about this is that everyone can take on this job, because you don't need any special further training for it. In a get-acquainted workshop, you are prepared for the role and should you need further training, that’s no problem either.
Eike Riechmann: Beyond my responsibilities, I am also the training officer for the machine tool shop in Päpinghausen. Since I was already interested in training when I was hired, I was pleased that my team leader suggested me for this position.
As a training officer, I am responsible for coordinating the trainees in the different fields and assigning tasks. In these duties I am responsible for providing them with technical support and training – so they also stand with me at the workbench and I teach them different methods and techniques. I also serve as the contact person for all matters related to training and organizational issues.
I enjoy my work with the junior staff because it is always multi-faceted – the young staff brings a breath of fresh air into the company.
WAGO also offers the job of tool mechanic (m/w/d) as an apprenticeship - what can junior employees expect from this?
Eike Riechmann: In the first two years, all trainees are taught the general content of the profession of tool mechanic, and in the third year, we move on to specialized training for their respective fields. At the same time, we are constantly developing training in this area.
Lukas Horstmann: I too joined WAGO through an apprenticeship, and can only say that I am glad I did. The saying “learning years are not earning years” really doesn't apply here. The three years of training were very structured and practical, and the contents were always clearly explained to me. We also have a top training workshop.
Thank you very much for your time and insight into the work of tool mechanics at WAGO.
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