After training as a surface coater, the young woman is currently completing a two-year training course to become a technician.
Interview: Heinz Käsinger
Galvanotechnik: Ms. Stelea, you come from Schwäbisch Gmünd. So electroplating is in your blood?
Jasmin Stelea: Of course you can't put it like that. But my dad used to love repairing cars and I helped him restore them as a child. It was clear to me early on that I wanted to learn a technical profession in which mainly men work.
Did your family support your career choice?
Absolutely. But I think it's a shame that some friends and acquaintances couldn't imagine what this profession would be like. After all, every thing has a surface: street signs, jewelry, sanitary fittings ...
How has your training gone so far?
I trained as a surface coater at Metallveredelung Proba. I later worked there for a few months in the analytics and wastewater technology department and then started my technician training, two years full-time: school from Monday to Friday. I also worked at my training company to finance it.
Are there any more women on your course?
Yes, one other woman. However, I was the only one in my training class.
How do you think you are perceived in the role of a woman in your profession?
First of all, I would like to emphasize that I am treated absolutely correctly by teachers, bosses and also by my fellow students. Of course, sometimes you have to be able to assert yourself. But I think it's very important to simply take a different path and not be put into the typical female mold.
What made you decide to train as a technician?
My gender did play a role. I don't just want to get ahead in my job, I want to get ahead as a woman.
I want to develop personally and professionally and expand my knowledge. I don't have to have children in my private life either, I put my career second, after my health.
So will you perhaps go on to study after your technician training?
Not directly. First of all, I want to earn money afterwards. I see myself more as a practitioner on site in a company anyway. My goal is to work in research and development. I recently did an internship with the German Armed Forces, which could perhaps also be an alternative. You don't necessarily earn as much there as in the private sector, but the position in the Bundeswehr is secure, so it's also something practical, just as a soldier in the Bundeswehr electroplating department.
I don't know what it will look like in ten years' time, I like to plan for the future, but nothing is predictable.
