As part of the verification process of employers for conducting practical education, an expert commission from the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia visited the Dräxlmaier company in Kumanovo. The visit aimed at inspecting the conditions for conducting practical training.

During the visit, the commission had the opportunity to observe work-based learning in action with students training for the qualification of industrial mechatronics technician from OSTU "Nace Bugjoni" in Kumanovo, who carry it out at the company.

The students expressed satisfaction with the work-based learning at the company and with the support of their mentors, who transfer their experience and guide them through practical tasks with dedication and expertise. They also highlighted the solid working conditions, as well as the equipment and tools at their disposal to complete the tasks assigned by the mentors.

It is particularly significant that, encouraged by their mentors, the students develop creativity and innovation. As a result, they independently executed several innovative projects, applying the acquired knowledge and practical skills.

When asked what motivated them to select the industrial mechatronics technician qualification, most students noted that the deciding factor was the opportunity for work-based learning at Dräxlmaier, about which they had heard positive experiences from older peers.

"I chose this qualification because of the practical training and because it represents a combination of electrical and mechanical engineering—something new for us—as well as the prospect of employment after completing our education," stated third-year student Stefan Dimitrievski.

The participation of girls in this qualification also drew special attention. They emphasized that their choice was also a challenge to break down prejudices regarding the division of occupations into male and female.

"The qualification seemed interesting to me and was something new at our school. It represents a blend of mechanical and electrical engineering, and mastering the processes was a challenge for me. We are the third generation of girls enrolled in this qualification," noted Biljana Velichkoska.

For Nina Velichkovska, the positive experiences from practical training served as an important motivation for her decision: "I chose this qualification because a friend told me that the internship at the company is very good and that the qualification is modern. I had the support of my parents, who believe that there are no male or female professions and that girls can also successfully master the processes."

Neda Velichkoska reflected on the prejudices she encountered: "When I enrolled, I had the support of my family, but people outside it asked me why I had chosen a 'male profession' and how I would manage as a girl. Once I started learning, I realized that there is no male or female profession, but that you simply have to love what you do."

Their experiences highlight the importance of high-quality practical education in building skills, self-confidence, and overcoming prejudices when choosing a career.

The Dräxlmaier Group opened its first plant in 2012 near Kavadarci, and in 2021, its second plant in the Kumanovo region became operational. It was among the first companies in 2016 to join the dual education program according to German standards, preparing students for the qualification of industrial mechatronics technician in cooperation with the vocational school "Kiro Spandjov–Brko" from Kavadarci. The Kavadarci plant was verified in 2018.

Through the verification of employers, the Chamber contributes to ensuring appropriate conditions under which students apply their knowledge, develop practical skills, and prepare for the future workplace.