MINT, which stands for mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology, describes a federal government program to promote women in other wise rather atypical professional fields. The promotion of women, not just in management positions, is an important concern for us. In particular, access to professional fields with a disproportionately high proportion of male colleagues plays a crucial role. Be it the aspiring mechatronics engineer for heavy commercial vehicles or the professional driver – what matters is the personal
commitment and desire to make a difference -regardless of gender. In Moers, we found two young women who are completing their training in a profession that is still more of a man’s job. VivianBecker is completing her training as a vehicle mechatronics technician and works in the vehicle workshop.
Kalia Hund is a prospective professional driver and already has her driving license and ADR license in the pocket. We conducted an interview with both of them about their training and career choice:
R: RINNENews, K: Kalia Filine Hund, V: Vivian Becker
R: “Hello Kalia, hello Vivien. Why did you choose this particular profession? Has this always been your dream job?”
K: “To be honest, no. At the training fair in Moers, I saw the RINNE stand and found out about the profession. Until then I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do. Through RINNEN I learnt about a new perspective, applied and got the job.”
V: “It was similar for me. I actually wanted to become a police officer, but that didn’t work out. At the training fair, I saw that RINNEN also offers training, and, among other things, I applied there. I’m pleased that it worked at RINNEN, as many other companies canceled because, for example, there are no toilets or changing rooms for women.”
R: “Were there moments when you had the feeling that it would be harder as a woman than as a man?
V: “Yes. For example, when it comes to lifting wheels. A man usually has a bit of an advantage. Of course, my colleagues offer help, but I want to be able to do it myself.”
K:” I have the feeling that there are advantages to learning the profession as a woman. I experience a lot of willingness to help, especially from my colleagues at RINNEN, and the feeling that they are looking out for you.”
R: “Does the training meet your expectations? What do you like about it? What could we do better?
K: “The training corresponds to what I imagined. It is very versatile, offers insight into many interesting areas, and I work with great colleagues. I think the learning day at RINNEN is very good. In general, support and a high level of specialist knowledge are imparted (e.g. workshop stay).”
V: “The job basically meets my expectations. My father is a trained mechanic, so I had a good idea of what to expect.”
R: Do you think your career and private goals can be easily combined?”
K: “I think the future can be challenging here, especially when it comes to family. I’m looking forward to the future and know that RINNEN will be fair and cooperative here too.”
V: “Basically yes. You learn so much in this training that you can later use in your everyday life. I still haven’t given up on my dream job of being a police officer.”
R: “Would you recommend your job to your female friends?”
K: “I would of course recommend this job to women. However, you have to be prepared to prove yourself in this job, which may not suit everyone.”
V: “Yes, which is what I like to do. My friends know what I do and are always very curious. However, I don’t think this profession is automatically for every woman.”
R:”From your point of view, what would have to change so that more young women would be interested in your profession?”
K & V: “Advantages for women should be highlighted more clearly. There needs to be more education, and the professions and opportunities should be made more public. The image of these professions needs to improve, and people need to understand that, as a woman, you can have the same strengths and weaknesses as a man.”
Thank you, Kalia and Vivian.
