Apprenticeship Exam Preparation

I’d originally attended an evening secondary school with the goal of taking the Matura. But after three years, my German skills still weren’t sufficient. So I looked around and eventually found out about the apprenticeship in glass building technology at ÖJAB’s BPI from Verein Sprungbrett, an organization that provides advice and support specifically for girls and young women. They made it possible for a group of girls to spend four days at the BPI to learn a bit about the techniques used by glaziers. It was a great new experience for me. In just a short while, I’d learned a lot about glass-cutting – and it was fun right from the start. Now I’m here, and I like everything a whole lot. I like glass as a material, how you can create soft lines from sharp edges. I also enjoy the attractive colors of regular glass and ornamental glass. And I especially like how we don’t use any poisonous chemicals or materials at the workshops. But the most important thing for me is to find something enjoyable and interesting to do straight off – and I’ve now become passionate about continuing in this line of work.

After graduation from my compulsory schooling, I wrote lots of applications but couldn’t find an apprenticeship spot that was right for me. I then got help from the Labour Market Service and the organization “Jugend am Werk,” which introduced me to several different vocational fields. I first did an internship in metal technology, which I liked. But then, I got a chance to try out glass building technology at the BPI. And pretty soon, I knew: “This is something I want to do” – I absolutely wanted to do something craftsmanship-related. The first thing I made here was a glass candelabra. And the positive first impression that I’d gotten in the workshops was spot-on. What fascinates me most about working with glass is how I can drill a hole through this delicate material and it doesn’t shatter. And I really do want to become a true, all-around glazier. I’m not sure what the future will bring. But what’s important is that whatever comes along, that’s what it’ll be, and I’ll take it on.