Does vocational training for automotive students have to mean spending three weeks working only on cars in a workshop? Not necessarily. During the stay of students from Kecskeméti Szakképzési Centrum in Rzeszów, we aimed to show that the automotive industry is much more than just working with engines, and that this profession can be understood in a broader way than everyday repairs.
As part of the Erasmus+ VET programme, we designed three weeks of experiences that allowed participants to look at their future career path from different perspectives. One of the key elements of the programme were visits to companies and institutions related to the technical sector. The students visited BorgWarner Poland, where they could see how automotive components are produced in a large international company. At the Regional Voluntary Labour Corps (OHP) office in Podkarpackie, they discussed career paths and opportunities in the technical sector, while at 3car.pl they explored the daily reality of working in a car service and how such a business operates.
At the same time, we wanted to go a step further and show the industry from the perspective of decision-making, responsibility and management. That is why the students had the opportunity to run their own car workshop in a safe, simulated environment. During sessions using REVAS business simulations, they took on the role of workshop owners and made decisions related to finances, work organisation and business development strategies. It was a chance to understand that in this field, technical skills are only one part of the equation, and that entrepreneurship and management skills are equally important.
Alongside the professional component, an important part of the programme included language workshops and integration activities. The students developed their communication skills in English, worked in an international environment and had the opportunity to explore Rzeszów and the Podkarpacie region. These everyday interactions and shared experiences often turned out to be just as valuable as the professional learning itself.
The three weeks passed quickly. At the end, it was time for reflection, evaluation and the awarding of certificates. The students returned home not only with new knowledge, but also with experience of working in an international environment and a broader understanding of their future profession. The project was funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme, which enables young people to gain practical experience and develop their skills in an international context.