Top performance in coating technology
Maria Seber, 19 years old, is setting new standards in the field of process mechanics for coating technology at ROPA. As the first apprentice in this field, she has not only completed her training with an impressive average grade of 1.8, but has also been awarded the prestigious ‘Everyone needs powder’ prize. On this occasion, (from left to right) Yuriy Podolyaka, trainer and head of coating department, managing directors Carolin Paintner and Dr Eberhard Krayl, and Wolfgang Kiendl, head of training, congratulated her.
Outstanding performance in a field dominated by male employees
Maria Seber took first place among more than 240 participants in the training competition organised by the Quality Association for Industrial Coating (QIB). Her passion and commitment contributed to this extraordinary achievement. The ‘Everyone needs powder’ award, which she won, is presented annually at the Practical Industrial Coating Forum in Wetzlar. This prize, awarded for the fourth time in 2024, recognises outstanding talents in the coating industry and honours graduates of the ‘Process mechanic for coating technology’ apprenticeship. In addition to the award and prize money, Maria Seber also received an opportunity to take part in the technical congress, where she was able to exchange ideas with leading industry experts and learn about the latest technology trends.
Quality as the highest priority
After completing her apprenticeship, Maria Seber joined the department of coating quality control at ROPA, where she can apply her expertise in the coating technology in the best possible way. This challenging position allows her to take on responsible tasks in quality management. Her tasks include the wet-chemical pre-treatment of the systems, monitoring of important parameters and surface testing before and after coating. Thanks to the acquired skills and technical expertise, Maria Seber will ensure that the ROPA products not only come in excellent quality on delivery, but also after years of intensive use in the field. Her commitment emphasises ROPA's dedication to the highest quality standards and long-life agricultural technology that meets sophisticated demands of the modern farming industry.
Innovative ROPA apprenticeship concept
ROPA has introduced the apprenticeship as a process mechanic for coating technology in order to meet the increasing demand for qualified specialists.The acquired skills are of great importance to ROPA, as they contribute to the quality and durability of potato and sugar beet technology. Maria Seber was the first to benefit from this forward-looking step, completing her apprenticeship in just two and a half years instead of the usual three.
Wide range of apprenticeship opportunities at ROPA
In addition to the profession of process mechanic for coating technology, ROPA and PMB offer apprentices 12 other attractive professions. As an internationally expanding family business and premium manufacturer, ROPA offers young talents an opportunity for future-oriented professional growth. Whether commercial, technical or IT - apprentices can develop their individual strengths in an innovative and friendly working environment. The chances of being hired are extremely favourable. Trainees and working students have the opportunity to work directly with experts and gain valuable practical experience in the modern harvesting technology. With apprenticeships that encourage creativity and personal responsibility, ROPA is not just an employer, but a career catalyst for motivated young professionals like Maria Seber.