Congratulations on passing your final exams. Let’s first take a look at the IT training program at Arineo. How does it work?
Benni: The training program has changed somewhat since we started, but trainees generally familiarize themselves with key technical knowledge before working on smaller projects. Eventually, they are assigned to customer projects.
Robert: Exactly. In the Microsoft Dynamics ERP area, we first learned the basics of programming in X++, followed by a joint project to strengthen teamwork among first-year trainees. After that, in my area, we expanded Microsoft’s standard functionality and worked on previously processed or completed customer tasks to prepare for current projects. From the second half of the second year until the end of the apprenticeship, you work on customer projects under the guidance of trainers and third-year trainees.
Why did you decide to shorten your training, and what was involved?
Benni: There were several reasons. For one thing, I was already a bit older when I started the training. I had already completed a degree and had some work experience. On top of that, I became a father at the start of my training. I wanted to earn more sooner and have more flexibility in my working hours than is typical for a trainee.
Robert: For me, the decision was based on practical considerations. By the second year, I was already working on customer projects, and shortening the training didn’t change the exam schedule. So, regarding my workload, it didn’t make a difference whether I took the exam at the regular time or earlier. Shortening the program seemed like a good option since I had completed a six-month internship before the apprenticeship and had performed well overall. It allowed me to focus earlier on the aspects of the job that I genuinely enjoy.
Speaking of which, what did you enjoy most about your training?
Benni: Seeing how the knowledge you acquire builds on itself and gaining more confidence in development work. I started with very little prior knowledge, so I learned almost everything I know now during the apprenticeship.
Robert: I enjoyed working independently and tackling challenging and new tasks to build and strengthen my knowledge. I also liked mentoring other trainees in my later years of training because it allowed me to pass on my knowledge while solidifying it myself.
Did the apprenticeship meet your expectations?
Benni: Absolutely.
Even though it was a bold step for me to start an apprenticeship again, it was worth it. Thanks to the skills I gained at Arineo, my career can now really take off.
Robert: I didn’t have specific expectations. However, I appreciate that practical work takes center stage, especially when compared to the academic focus of a university degree.
What projects are you currently working on, and what are the next steps?
Benni: I’m currently working on a customer project where we’re developing a new, modern online store for a large industrial company. Additionally, I’m working on my professional development in areas such as Scrum Master certification.
Robert: Right now, I’m working on the same customer project where I’ve been involved since my third year and where I completed my final project. Looking ahead, I want to deepen my production and warehouse logistics expertise. Depending on how technology evolves in the next couple of years, I also plan to focus more on AI.
Were you able to get involved in other areas of the company during your training?
Benni: At Arineo, you’re encouraged to think outside the box and get involved in the company from day one. One of the highlights of my training was participating in the major Arineo strategy workshop. I represented the trainees and contributed our perspective to discussions and working groups shaping the company’s future.
Robert: There are various opportunities to get involved in different areas during training, but I primarily focused on my main tasks. After the end of training, it is always possible to retrain in other areas or build connections where it makes sense (e.g., ERP systems with AI functionality).
What tips do you have for students interested in this profession?
Benni: Try programming for yourself, and don’t be afraid to apply, even if the field is new to you. We regularly have trainees who use their internship to determine whether this training and career path suits them.
Robert: I would recommend taking a good beginner’s course, such as the free and easily accessible Python course from Massive Open Online Course. These courses help you figure out if you enjoy programming. Personally, learning the basics and working with the peculiarities of X++ during the internship was very beneficial. Of course, prior programming knowledge isn’t mandatory. However, it’s a great way to see if you enjoy coding and could imagine doing it as a career.
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