What does it take to prepare the next generation of engineers and technicians for real careers in Switzerland’s fast-moving manufacturing industry? In this Q&A, Valdete Salihi, recruitment and employer branding lead at libs, shares how deep industry collaboration helps shape confident, career-ready apprentices.
From trial placements to partnerships with companies like ESCATEC, libs.ch is helping students make the leap from education to employment.
Engineering and manufacturing students in Switzerland benefit most from strong hands-on technical skills. These include CNC machining, CAD/CAM applications, automation, electronics, robotics, PLC programming, digital process optimisation, precision measurement, quality control, project management, and sustainability awareness. These skills are outlined in the official Swiss vocational training documents (BiVo) for professions such as Automation Technician (Automatiker/in EFZ), Electronics Technician (Elektroniker/in EFZ), and Production Mechanic (Produktionsmechaniker/in EFZ).
libs works closely with leading industry partners in Switzerland such as ESCATEC. For example, libs manages recruitment and pre-selection, while ESCATEC participates in interviews and provides specialised training. Students complete their foundational training at libs before moving to on-the-job specialisation at partner companies like ESCATEC.
At libs, we offer a wide range of apprenticeships that match the needs of today’s manufacturing and tech industries. For students interested in technical roles, options include:
In the ICT field, students can apply for apprenticeships such as:
We also offer Commercial Apprenticeships for those interested in business-focused careers.
For a complete list of current opportunities, visit our apprenticeship opportunities page.
Some apprentices have transitioned into engineering roles at ESCATEC, continuing their studies at a university of applied sciences or through the Swiss vocational baccalaureate (Berufsmatura). Others have taken on leadership or trainer roles in the industry.
libs integrates innovation into its training by using cutting-edge technologies such as Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT), and 3D printing. Students are encouraged to work on innovation-driven projects and collaborate in agile, real-world teams. This ensures that technological progress is directly embedded into the training process.
Sustainability is a core part of all training programmes at libs. Students learn about energy and resource efficiency. They learn to follow environmental standards in production, and use modern, sustainable technologies. These elements are included in every BiVo curriculum, for example in electronics and automation technician training.
Do not just learn to build machines – learn to think, plan, and solve problems. Be curious, take the initiative, and try everything! I encourage students to explore trial apprenticeships (Schnupperlehre) to gain early insights into the profession. More information is available on the libs website.
libs ensures a smooth transition through practical foundational training, and rotations at member companies such as ESCATEC. We provide coaching, mentoring, and integration with vocational school and intercompany courses (ÜK). This combination bridges the gap between education and the real working world.
Examples include: ESCATEC onboarding libs apprentices in electronics and assembly, joint development of project-based learning environments, and co-recruiting initiatives to match the right talents with industry needs.
libs promotes networking by placing apprentices directly in partner companies like ESCATEC where they collaborate with experienced engineers and mentors. We also organise company visits, events, and open days. Libs facilitates project-based learning with cross-functional teams, and provides access to alumni networks and career coaches to help students build long-term professional connections.
About libs.ch
libs.ch is a Swiss training provider specialising in technical, manufacturing, and commercial apprenticeships. With locations across Switzerland and deep partnerships with leading technology companies like ESCATEC, libs delivers future-oriented training that combines education, innovation, and industry.