Civil engineering you can touch: How Tobias discovered his dream job during his STRABAG internship
From initial interest to internship on the construction site
STRABAG was not an unfamiliar name for Tobias. Various construction sites in the area and social media posts had already aroused his curiosity. When he found out more about the internship and day-to-day work on the careers website, it was clear to him: "This is exactly the right internship for me.
An early start to a varied working day
Even before the first commuters are out and about in the city, the construction team's working day is already picking up speed. At the start of the day, Tobias gathers with his colleagues in the recreation container, where brief discussions and a coffee kick off the working day. A few minutes later, the foreman takes the floor and it is decided who will take on which tasks. Tobias lends a hand wherever he is needed - in the trench, on the formwork or with the concrete. He is most enthusiastic about concreting the base.
The activities that particularly motivate Tobias include stripping the concrete blocks, laying the beams and the actual concreting. It's work that combines physical effort and precision and where you can see what you've achieved at the end of the day.
The fascination of machines
A highlight of his internship took place in the very first week: Tobias was allowed to take a seat in an excavator and see the machine from the inside. He also got to know the roller and wheel loader. Experiences like this make the internship unforgettable for him and show that civil engineering is much more than just physical work.
Learn, understand, think along
What Tobias has learned in the first few weeks goes far beyond lifting beams. He now knows how to measure pipes and trenches correctly, how to place formwork and how to use materials sparingly and responsibly. It was particularly important for him to experience how crucial good communication is on the construction site: listening, understanding, asking questions and benefiting from the experience of his colleagues. Tobias is mastering his tasks with increasing routine.
A look into the future
Tobias has now made up his mind: he wants to start an apprenticeship in civil engineering. His internship has not only given him practical skills, but also a sense of responsibility, teamwork and the value of precise work. He now knows what it means to be part of a construction site team and how fulfilling it can be to see concrete progress at the end of the day.
Who would Tobias recommend an internship in civil engineering to? Anyone who enjoys practical work and likes working in a team. He particularly emphasizes how varied the work is and how pleasant it is to work together on the construction site.
His tips for future interns:
- Treating each other with respect
- Taking punctuality seriously
- Thinking for yourself and showing initiative
- Use tips from experienced colleagues
- Using materials sparingly and consciously
- Don't be afraid to ask questions!