Two precision mechanics from HZB are Berlin's best trainees

Two former apprentices from the HZB workshop have achieved something remarkable: Fiete Buchin and Edgar Lunk completed their training as precision mechanics, taking first and second place in all of Berlin. In this interview, they share what it took to reach the top, what makes their training special, and the advice they would give to future apprentices.

How did you feel when you heard the results?

Fiete: I came out of the exam feeling very good. So I expected the result to be quite good. But when I found out that I had finished top of the class, I was naturally very happy.

Edgar: It was similar for me. We worked intensively for three years to achieve a good result. When the results came a few weeks after the exam, I was honestly still surprised that they were so good.

Do you have any special tips on how to achieve such a result?

Fiete: We had excellent training here in the workshop at HZB right from the start. That pays off when you graduate. You don't just study for the exam, the decisive factor is the three years of learning we had here beforehand. So my tip is: make the most of the entire training period and keep learning.

Edgar: My tip would be to always approach your work with full concentration. Precision requires attention – and that's exactly what matters in our profession. If you feel your concentration slipping, it's better to pause for a moment and take a break before continuing.

What makes the apprenticeship in the workshop special?

Fiete: Our trainer Christian Remus has supported us very well from the start and given us comprehensive guidance. The fact that trainees here at HZB have already graduated as the best in the state before us clearly speaks for the quality of the training. The collegial atmosphere in the workshop also contributes significantly to a pleasant and constructive working environment.

Edgar: I completely agree. From the very beginning, we were treated with respect and were able to help implement exciting projects. 

What do precision mechanics generally do? How long does the apprenticeship take?

Edgar: The apprenticeship lasts 3.5 years, but we both shortened it to 3 years. As a precision mechanic, you manufacture precise components or assemblies from semi-finished products (raw parts). This includes activities such as cutting, milling, turning and filing – in other words, all the steps required to manufacture a workpiece in accordance with the drawings.
The starting point is a technical drawing that defines all dimensions, tolerances and surface requirements. At the end, the dimensional accuracy and function of the assembly are checked. Typical for our workshop is the predominant production of individual parts. This requires a high degree of precision, flexible use of various manufacturing methods and craftsmanship. This keeps the work particularly varied and challenging.

Fiete: A significant part of our work also takes place on the computer, for example when evaluating technical drawings and programming CNC machines. Communication is also important, as we are in regular contact with users from HZB. Questions often arise when certain design details cannot be implemented exactly as intended in practice . The contact with the scientists enriches the work in a special way. I really enjoy the professional exchange and the joint search for solutions.

Was there a workpiece or assembly that you are particularly proud of?

Edgar: I am currently working on a sample holder for button cell batteries, which will later be used in a research laboratory. The assembly is technically challenging because I am manufacturing it from different materials such as PEEK, copper and stainless steel. The combination of different materials and manufacturing processes makes the work particularly interesting and challenging.

Fiete: As part of our training, we manufactured an office hole punch. This was the first time I had created a CNC programme on my own and implemented the entire production of the component in a continuous process.

What's next for you now?

Fiete: Like all trainees at HZB, we have been offered a six-month contract. I will be taking up a position in the Adlershof workshop.

Edgar: I would also like to stay. If that doesn't work out, I will start training to become a master craftsman.