Georges-Eric Ruys is in charge of operational aspects at Safram, including imports and exports between Switzerland and Europe, the customs service and the drivers department. In addition, as a supervisor working with young apprentices, he talks to us about his new duties.

What is Safram’s policy with regard to apprenticeships ?
A year ago, we noticed that this policy was non-existent! It seemed obvious to us that the future depended on training young people and that we absolutely had to take an interest in it. It is a step which is all the more relevant given that the company benefits from the climate created by the new generation, and will cultivate a pool of skills over the years which is valuable in terms of future commitments.

What type of training do your apprentices prepare for ?
It is a Federal Certificate of Commerical Apprenticeship with an option in freight forwarding involving a partnership with the École André-Chavanne. These training courses last for three years, during which the youngsters alternately spend three days at the company and two days at school.

When did you start these training courses ?
We started in September with two apprentices. We intend to take on two new ones each year in order to have six youngsters permanently after three years on a rotating basis as each training course comes to an end.

What does your supervisory work involve ?
As a supervisor, I am responsible to the authorities. I deal with placing the youngsters in the various departments, planning tasks and courses, as well as monitoring the apprentices. I also handle the recruitment aspects.

How was the selection process carried out ?
It was first done through the association SPEDLOGSWISS which provided me with a shortlist of applicants which I chose from, exactly just like I would have done for any employee.

 In addition to the specific curriculum of courses, what do you think you are able bring to your apprentices ?
It is a real corporate policy not to consider them as cheap labour. It is also part of my ethics: I’m dedicated to conveying knowledge and values. My ambition is to instil in them the desire to bring out the best in themselves and turn them into true professionals by the end of the training.