In this series, we shine the spotlight on the different apprenticeship programs we run across the globe – one country at a time. This time, the spotlight falls on Italy.
When he started his Schindler apprenticeship in 2023, Federico Villa had no idea that just 14 months later, he would be a full-time Service Technician with a permanent employment contract.
Federico joined Schindler enthusiastic, positive, and full of energy, ready to work hard and learn as much as he could – but also unsure of what he’d find.
He wasn’t disappointed. "Since I joined, everything’s gone above and beyond my expectations," the 22-year-old explains with a smile. "The preparation we receive, both in theory and with the practical training, is fundamental. Our tutors are experts, who are helpful, attentive, patient, and friendly – they’re role models to us all."
Since I joined, everything’s gone above and beyond my expectations," says Federico Villa, former apprentice, now full-time Service Technician.
Italy’s Schindler School was created as the solution to a problem. Italy legally requires all Service Technicians to have an official certificate, so, when faced with a shortage of qualified professionals, Schindler Italy decided to take matters into their own hands – and train technicians themselves.
"We’re creating the future of our company. We’re essentially putting together a bench of technical employees who are ready to be called up and become part of the business," explains Barbara Pirioni, Talent Attraction Manager at Schindler Italy.
And the program is already growing. It began in 2023 with 11 students in Lombardy, a key region known for its high turnover rate. Now in its second year, it has 15 students from five other fast-growing, high-priority regions.
The apprenticeship is open to young people under the age of 25 who have a technical diploma from secondary school. New recruits undertake two months of theoretical technician training, followed by on-the-job training, shadowing technicians servicing our escalators, elevators, and moving walks.
After nine months, we offer successful apprentices a professional apprenticeship, during which they continue to shadow experts, to further prepare them for permanent roles. For how long depends on their abilities. "Some of them are so quick to put into practice what they’ve learnt," explains Barbara proudly.
We’re creating the future of our company. We’re essentially putting together a bench of technical employees who are ready to be called up and become part of the business," comments Barbara Pirioni, Talent Attraction Manager, Schindler Italy.
A global apprenticeship approach
Our apprenticeship program in Italy is just one of many similar programs we run in different parts of the world. Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, China, New Zealand, Australia and the UK – all offer apprenticeship programs covering a variety of professions.
While programs differ from one country to the next, all offer our youth an opportunity to enter the workforce and develop the skills they need to thrive in the workplace of today and tomorrow.
Nicholas Salerno, a 20-year-old Service Technician apprentice from Lombardy, will complete his apprenticeship this year. The combination of in-class theory and specialized training is setting him up for success in the field.
"Theoretical instruction and practical application progress in parallel," he explains, "and the theory helps me understand all the essential concepts, making it easier to communicate effectively with field colleagues during my practical training. And then when I’m unsure about anything during field operations, the theory classes are there to help me understand everything in more depth."
The unwavering support offered by our skilled senior staff is invaluable to our apprentices. Nicholas is very appreciative of the colleagues who have supported and helped him from day one.
"Field colleagues offer so much insight and expertise – and support," he explains. "My most challenging and rewarding job so far was the first time we replaced the handrail on a moving walkway. I worked with a senior Schindler technician, who explained everything he was doing and showed me what we needed to do. He let me help him, and we were a great team!"
My success so far has helped me grow personally, and has shown me that despite my inexperience, I am competent – which has made me even more motivated," comments current apprentice, Nicholas Salerno.
Federico considers himself "lucky" to have had such a fantastic first apprenticeship experience. But his positivity, determination, and ambition have undoubtedly played a critical role in his successful journey from apprenticeship to professional apprentice to permanent employee. He’s also gained his elevator operator license – which is a source of great pride. "I’m 22 and I’m so happy with my professional achievements so far." And he’s not stopping there. He has high expectations for his future.
Nicholas is also ambitious. "My success so far has helped me grow personally, and has shown me that despite my inexperience, I am competent – which has made me even more motivated," he says. He hopes to continue working with his Schindler team and also obtain his license.
Before joining Schindler, Nicholas was under the impression that a technician’s responsibilities were limited to maintenance. "But," he explains, "I’ve been actively involved in service calls and repair activities, as well as maintenance tasks. The diversity of the work has made it really engaging and satisfying."
What does the future hold for the program? "Hopefully more of a gender balance," says Barbara. The first cohort was all male; the second has one girl and 13 boys. The primarily male school student base continues to pose a challenge for the Schindler recruitment team. "Hopefully in a few years’ time this will be different," comments Barbara. "We need a cultural change in schools, to attract girls to the technical sector from an early age."
Barbara sees Schindler School going the distance. "We’re continuing to make students aware of this great opportunity they have within our business. It’s long-term and it’s very secure – as the market requires technicians for these products," she explains.
Despite their success so far, the team are by no means resting on their laurels. They analyze and evaluate the program every year, ask apprentices for honest feedback, and implement improvements ready for the incoming cohort.
They’re exceeding expectations already – and that shows no sign of stopping.