From apprentice to trainer: Matthias' career path at STRABAG
At the age of 16, Matthias decided to train as a draughtsman. Even at school, he was fascinated by mathematics and technology, especially technical drawing and working with CAD programs. "I always enjoy visualizing and designing things technically," he says.
When looking for a training company, he quickly became aware of STRABAG. The combination of technical expertise and a strong employer from the region convinced him. He awaits his first day at work with excitement and curiosity. "I didn't know exactly what to expect. Suddenly working with adults was unfamiliar," he says. But the onboarding takes away his initial uncertainty. His trainer introduces him to the tasks step by step and his colleagues support him in his day-to-day work.
Career development: training, career and further education in harmony
After Matthias successfully completed his training as a draughtsman, he switched to the field of billing technology. His thirst for knowledge remains unquenched: parallel to his job, he starts several years of further training to become a state-certified construction technician and master road builder.
The time was intense: "Monday to Friday was school - often half days - and during the vacations or at the weekend I also worked at STRABAG. Especially during the examination phase, the support of my superiors was crucial." The exchange with colleagues who were completing similar further training in the commercial sector gave him additional motivation.
The step to becoming a trainer: Sharing and passing on knowledge
Today, Matthias is a site manager - and has also been an instructor for just over a year. The decision to do so was not made by chance. His own trainer had a strong influence on him. He works according to the motto 'knowledge is power' - whereby power does not mean keeping knowledge to yourself, but passing it on.
He is particularly proud when trainees stay with the company after their apprenticeship and continue their career. In order to give them as broad a picture of the profession as possible, they are allowed to work on different construction sites. "I enjoy taking on responsibility and supporting young talents in their development," says Matthias about his role.
Formative experiences: Learning from role models and projects
Matthias has been involved in many projects along the way that have left their mark on him. One in particular stands out: the Mittlerer Ring in Munich. There, he worked closely with a site manager whom he describes as a role model: "He coordinated different trades in parallel and gave me responsibility. That inspired me to take the step from accountant to site manager myself."
Since then, he has been attracted by the versatility of site management: no two days are the same, new challenges await every day. "I'm constantly learning and that's exactly what I want to pass on to my trainees," says Matthias.
Tips for young talent
What advice does Matthias give to young people who want to pursue a similar career?
- Seize opportunities: STRABAG offers many development opportunities - you should actively seize them.
- Keep at it: Setbacks are part of the game. Perseverance pays off.
- Asking questions: This is not a sign of weakness, but of a willingness to learn.
- Keep an open mind: Those who try out new things are constantly evolving.
- Practice-oriented thinking: Theory is important, but practice makes the difference.
- Networking: Exchanging ideas with colleagues is one of the most valuable sources of learning.
Conclusion: A path full of possibilities
Matthias' career path shows how diverse the development opportunities at STRABAG are - from trainee to trainer, from the drawing table to the construction site. Motivation, perseverance and the willingness to take on responsibility are crucial for him. Today, he passes on this experience and ensures that the next generation of draughtsmen and construction technicians have the best possible start to their careers.