Training tomorrow’s high-skilled workers
libs aims to provide young people with the best basic vocational training. The foundation of the programme consists of personal responsibility, lifelong learning and active engagement in shaping one's own future. libs is an association that appeals to companies of all sizes, from big global corporations like ABB to small- and medium-sized companies like Otto Hofstetter AG. "Our strength lies in our close cooperation with industry," explains Marcel Allemann, head of the libs centre in Rapperswil, near Otto Hofstetter AG. "This allows us to continually adapt the training content to current market requirements."
State-of-the-art learning environment
The organisation's four training centres are equipped with the latest technology. This is where the foundations are laid for careers in the technical and commercial fields are laid. The training model combines solid basic and supplementary training at libs with specialised training at the partner companies. "We combine the best of both worlds", says Allemann. "With us, the trainees benefit from modern infrastructure and experienced vocational instructors, while the companies further qualify them in specific specialist areas."
Flexibility for individual paths
libs offers training models that adapt to the needs of both trainees and companies. In the classic model, the trainees first complete the basic training at libs before moving on to the partner companies. This system has advantages for both sides. "The trainees gain valuable experience and the companies gain highly qualified young talent", says Allemann. With a share of around eleven percent of all apprenticeship contracts within Swiss MEM member companies, libs plays a central role in the training of young specialists.
A reliable partner for the future
Otto Hofstetter AG has been working closely with libs for two years. A few weeks ago, another plastics technologist apprentice was recruited for the start of the apprenticeship in 2025. "The basic training at libs is an important pillar for us", says Charles Akers, plastics technologist supervisor at Otto Hofstetter AG. "It also gives future apprentices the tools they need to assert themselves later in a highly specialised industry." Two current examples of this collaboration are Roman Bühler and Lorenzo Gregorio.
The two young plastics technologists, both in the second year of their apprenticeships, are currently completing their basic training at libs and will continue their specialised training at Otto Hofstetter AG in summer 2025. They will spend time in every department so that they get to know the up- and downstream processes and their interrelationships. "The injection moulding process is complex and requires a holistic understanding in order to be able to advise customers correctly", emphasizes Akers. "Only those who understand the entire process chain can later develop optimal solutions."
Practical relevance as the key to success
The close connection between theory and practice is special feature of the training at libs. The trainees work on real projects and production orders that optimally prepare them for their professional future. In the organisation's modern training centres, they are familiarised with the latest machines and technologies. "The practical application of what they have learned motivates the trainees and shows them why their knowledge is important", explains libs’ Marcel Allemann. This not only enhances the quality of the training, but also the young people's identification with their profession.
More than just vocational training
libs not only imparts technical skills, but also promotes entrepreneurial thinking. Since 2021, the trainees have been taking part in the "Entrepreneur House" course. Already in the first year of their apprenticeship, they acquire the ability to structure and validate business ideas. In the optional second year of training, they learn how to bring a product to market and start up a company. "Our goal is not only to provide young people with technical training, but also to inspire them to think and act entrepreneurially", explains Allemann.
Investing in the future
For Otto Hofstetter AG, the collaboration with libs is more than just a question of personnel. "We are investing in our future", says Stefan Zatti, Division Manager Sales and Marketing. "We can only maintain our leading position in mouldmaking with well-trained specialists." The libs training organisation continually adapts its programmes. New technologies and changing market requirements are directly incorporated into the curricula. At the same time, the organisation is investing in training more vocational instructors and in the modernisation of its infrastructure.
Switzerland's dual education system, as exemplified by libs, is a model of success. It combines theory and practice and strengthens Switzerland as a place to work for the long term. Partner companies such as Otto Hofstetter AG benefit from this, as do the skilled workers who complete their training here.
Fit for the challenges of tomorrow
The MEM industry is facing major challenges: digitisation, technological innovations and global competition. Meeting these challenges requires highly qualified employees. libs has created the conditions to actively shape this change. With practice-oriented training, modern infrastructure and a strong anchoring in industry, the association ensures that Switzerland can continue to build on a strong base of skilled workers in the future.
