Working at Probst—in assembly

In 2006, Rick Schnalke started an apprenticeship as a construction mechanic. Meanwhile, he is responsible for the assembly of the large hydraulic equipment and is team leader of the paint shop.

A conversation about the family atmosphere in the team and the AKZ - his favorite tongs from Probst.

What does your everyday life at Probst look like? How long have you been with Probst?

I began my training as a construction mechanic or fitter at Probst in 2006. I learned welding and flame cutting of different metals. And pretty soon I was able to handle the flex properly.

I learned a lot during my training at Probst, which prepared me perfectly for my future career. But I was also always someone who liked to try out new things. That's why I worked for a short time as a field sales representative at Probst after my apprenticeship. But then I was drawn back to the Erdmannhausen site. There I found my dream job: the assembly of special machines.

I had to learn to build special machines step by step and I haven't stopped until now. (laughs) Something has changed, though, because since the beginning of the year I've been a team leader in assembly.

I'm responsible for all the painters, create drawings or place orders. And then, when everyone is taken care of, I can devote myself to my assembly work. (laughs)

What was your last big project that you successfully mastered?

I basically assemble all of our "big projects. (laughs) These are machines that weigh several tons - every time a new challenge that we master together. Because even with the big machines, you can't lose sight of the small details. Everything must be right, from the hydraulics to the paint.

That's why the AKZ flange-mounted tongs, which has been installed on our machine for two years, is my favorite machine. With the AKZ, everything fits, everything works and there are never any problems during assembly.

What makes working with colleagues at Probst so special?

Many certainly think that there is a stricter tone in the assembly. But this is not the case at all. The atmosphere at work is rather familiar and friendly. I never have any qualms about asking colleagues for help because I know exactly that several colleagues will lend a hand right away.

The relationship with the foremen is also very open and between meetings, which machine has to be painted quickly, a private chat always fits in. I really appreciate that. I don't think that's always a given elsewhere.

Probst makes hard work easier—for customers. But what does Probst do for its employees?

So instinctively, Jobbike comes to mind when I ask the question. Many of my colleagues who come from the surrounding area take advantage of the offer to lease an e-bike. It's also a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to driving a car.

I have fond memories of the parental time off I was able to take with each child quite easily. That is simply a time that no one can give back to you and there were never any problems or stress from Probst.

Whats your favourite "Probst moment"?

My personal "Probst moment" was when I recently got the team leader position. It has always been my goal to have a small leading position with some responsibility.

My foremen don't have a good view of the assembly from their office, so they needed a team leader there. I then also really got time to learn the ropes. First I got a phone, then a PC—and so step by step more and more has been added.

After one and a half years, I was officially team leader. That moment was really great and makes me very proud to this day.

Imagine meeting your younger "self" on Day 1 at Probst: What tip would you give yourself along the way?

Make your report card on time (laughs).

No, seriously, it's important to always do your best and never lose sight of your goal. Because Probst really does a lot to make sure that everyone gets ahead here.