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In our StartYourCareer@NORMA series, former apprentices, working students and interns all talk about how they got their career start at NORMA Group and the changes that come with being offered a permanent position.
From apprentice to master electrician and, eventually, to head of apprenticeship – that is the career path Pieter Breedveld has pursued at NORMA Group. In this interview, he talks about his motivation for staying loyal to the company for so long and shares some advice for future apprentices.
Pieter, how long have you been working at NORMA Group?
I started my apprenticeship as an industrial electrician at NORMA Group headquarters in Maintal, Germany, in August 2006. That means that I have been with the company for almost 18 years.
Can you tell us a little about your career at the company?
After successfully completing my three-and-a-half-year apprenticeship, I was hired on a full-time basis and began working as an industrial electronics technician specializing in semi-finished goods. In 2011, I decided to continue my education at night school to become a master electrician, a program that I completed after three years.
Then, in 2022, I applied for the position of head of apprenticeship when it was posted internally.
“I enjoy working with young people and the job had been my dream of mine for a long time.”
I was therefore delighted when I was accepted after three rounds of interviews.
How does your current day-to-day work differ from that as an electronics technician?
In addition to carrying out electrical and mechanical maintenance and repair work, my tasks back then also included creating, planning and carrying out briefings as well as supervising apprentices in production. I also worked a 3-shift system back then.
Since February 2023, I have been in the handover phase of my duties as head of apprenticeship, because the current person in this role is retiring
“A seamless transition is important, especially because it ensures that the apprenticeships runs smoothly.”
I teach the apprentices the basics of electrical engineering and prepare them for the intermediate and final exams. This also includes studying together and having an open ear for their questions. I am also part of the recruitment team for new apprentices.
What is it about your job that is important to you?
The personal interaction that occurs between apprenticeship and responsibility. I want to pass on the theoretical and practical knowledge I have acquired to others in the best possible way and with as much enjoyment as possible and ensure that there is always a good and respectful relationship between colleagues and apprentices.
What inspired you to stay with the company all these years?
I have always loved the variety and challenges that I face in my day-to-day work. My colleagues have also played a big part in my longevity – we are a really good team! Another positive aspect is the flexible working hours and the short commute; I only need five minutes to get from my home to NORMA Group.
What advice would you give to someone who would also like to do an apprenticeship at NORMA Group?
Just go ahead and apply! At NORMA Group, you can expect a comprehensive and varied apprenticeship with exciting tasks, good chances of being hired and a pleasant working atmosphere.
And when you’re not at work, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I do a lot of sports and enjoy going to the gym. I also have a passion for cars and motorcycles and I like to travel. But my son is my greatest passion. There is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with him.
What are your goals for the future?
Because I became head of apprenticeship, I have already achieved one of my greatest professional goals. Now it is my goal to provide the best possible support to the apprentices during their apprenticeships and to impart the necessary knowledge to them so that they can successfully complete their programs.
