Lea Marie Gaffron

Torque wrench instead of an office chair

When Lea Marie Gaffron began her training as a mechatronics technician in 2013 at GILDEMEISTER Drehmaschinen GmbH in Bielefeld, she already knew the company very well: “My father worked here in quality management and always took me to Open Houses,” says the 24-year-old. “The machines impressed me every time.”

“After doing my school internship in the commercial and technical area here at GILDEMEISTER, I discovered that I didn’t want to sit in the office,” explained Lea Marie Gaffron, who had already enjoyed handcrafting hobbies in her youth, explaining why she applied for a traineeship in a practical area in the company. She was particularly interested in mechatronics as it offered a good mix of electronics and mechanics. Today Lea Marie Gaffron is responsible for developing basic machines. Her tasks include mechanical work on the machine bed and other cast-iron parts.

For Lea Marie Gaffron, the working day begins already at six in the morning: “Although we do have flexitime as well as flexible work times, I like to finish early as I have training at least three times a week,” says the passionate netball player. The team spirit is also important to her work: “Right from the beginning I was made to feel very welcome.” It doesn’t matter at all that she almost exclusively works with men on the shop floor. “We are just as respected as our male colleagues here and can work on any tasks.” If a job is particularly physically strenuous, we need two sets of hands anyway. The mutual support is then a great thing.”

Lea Marie Gaffron would also like to continue to work in a practical setting for the long term. “I would like to complete my master qualification and obtain my trainer certificate.” This will allow her to continue to work in production as well as take on more responsibility – and to also pass on her knowledge to junior trainees.