Two trainees report: How the start at Batz + Burgel is going

Interview with Daniel Donadic and Thomas Grib, new apprentices at Batz + Burgel

Daniel Donadic (18) and Thomas Grib (17) have been part of the Batz + Burgel team since September 1, 2025. One is training to be an industrial clerk, the other a cutting machine operator – two different directions, but one common conclusion: their start could hardly have gone better. In this interview, the two reveal what they expect from their training, what their day-to-day work looks like – and why their application was worthwhile.

How were the first few days at Batz + Burgel?
Thomas: “Filing by hand is really exhausting. I learned that on the first day. But as soon as you’re at the machine, it’s much easier and really fun.”
Daniel: “I was a bit overwhelmed – not by the people, they were great, but by all the impressions.”

And now? Have you arrived a little yet?
Thomas: “Full on! I didn’t think it would be so informal here. I thought it would be much more formal. But the people here are really nice.”
Daniel: “And you’re taken seriously. You can ask questions, you get support – that’s worth its weight in gold, especially at the beginning.”

What exactly are you doing in your apprenticeship?
Daniel: “I’m learning to be an industrial clerk. I’m going through various departments such as sales or accounting and getting an overview of how a company works.”
Thomas: “I’m training to be a cutting machine operator – three and a half years. I’m learning how to operate machines, manufacture parts and write programs.”

What does your everyday life look like outside of work?
Daniel: “I play electric guitar – I have a few different models at home, plus a bass and a piano. Music is my thing: grunge – loud and honest!”
Thomas: “After work, I’m currently getting my driver’s license and spend a lot of time with my girlfriend or friends. I like to sleep in at the weekend.”

Why did you choose Batz + Burgel?
Daniel: “The company immediately caught my eye – modern, future-oriented, with a focus on digitalization and sustainability.”
Thomas: “I wrote dozens of applications – Batz + Burgel was one of the few companies that didn’t just look at grades, but at motivation. And you notice that in everyday life too.”

What are your hopes for the coming years?
Daniel: “I want to ask everything I don’t know – and leave with real knowledge at the end.”
Thomas: “I want to know the machines really well – and maybe get further at some point. I’m interested in craftsmanship and technology.”

Three words that best describe your start?
Daniel: “Fast. Instructive. Warm.”
Thomas: “Exhausting. Familiar. Diverse.”