Bilele, Machine Operator
at Zehnder since 2017
In 2017, I joined Zehnder through a temporary work agency, and one year later my manager asked me if I wanted to start an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship? Back then I had no idea what that word meant, but I said yes. I thought it must be something good, that they saw potential in me. Back at home my girlfriend explained to me that, if you want to have a good future in Germany, you should start an apprenticeship.
I enjoyed the apprenticeship as Machine Operator very much. I worked hard and quickly became a Machine Operator in Packaging. I furthered my training and now I'm responsible for the entire packaging line, already managing a small team. I enjoy going to work, I love the challenges, and my manager gives me a lot of responsibility. What I like the most is when everything is running smoothly again after a malfunction. It can sometimes be difficult to find the bug and fix it, but I focus on the problem and think about solutions even when I'm at home. I'm really happy when we get it right.
'Team spirit! I am a team player and I live that in my work as well. In Italy, I was a good football player and I see my team at Zehnder as a football team. I am the captain and I take care of my teammates. We work together, not against each other. I never say "do this or that". Instead, I say "we should do this or that, to reach this or that goal". When I see that another team here has a lot of work, we go over there and help them out. And they do the same for us.'
'Definitely the German language, that's the first thing. And Zehnder has taught me to be independent. Through my apprenticeship, I can help myself better. When the car rattles, I can hear what the problem is and carry out most repairs myself. Recently I even disassembled my washing machine and got it running again.'
'I'm the kind of guy that laughs and is content. I leave problems at home; I always try to show respect and be in a good mood. Respect is very important to me. I bring my positive vibes, my optimism. I show my team that problems can be seen as challenges and not as uncomfortable obstacles.'
'Recently I became the leading Machine Operator. I want to continue advancing in my career; my goal is to not stand still. Why not Factory Manager in ten years?'
'Family – I see some colleagues more often than my wife. We share everyday life, care for each other, solidarity, interest in me as a person. Zehnder takes care of
me, it's like a fellowship.'
What makes our employees happy in their jobs, what motivates them, and what do they wish for the future?
You can find out about Zehnder's personal side here.