Menzingen, 10.03.2023

The distinction between "boys' and girls' professions" persists

The first of three occupational shows in the canton of Zug recently took place at the Schützenmatt Centre in Menzingen – it was certainly an eye-opener.

If there’s a choice, you can end up being spoilt for choice. That’s what one’s tempted to say in view of the more than 50 professions that were presented by representatives of the individual training companies in the Schützenmatt Centre in Menzingen.

Yvonne Kraft, the representative of the trade association that organised the three-part event together with the Office for Vocational Training and Career Guidance (Amt für Berufsbildung und Berufsberatung) and the Zug Chamber of Commerce (Wirtschaftskammer), can draw on several years of experience. "I’m available here to provide information to the apprentices and their parents, as well as to the apprenticeship companies," she said.

The afternoon vocational show was rounded off by an evening event for parents and guardians, with presentations and a panel discussion in which teachers and vocational trainers, as well as apprentices, took part. Those present learned more about Swiss vocational education and the possibilities at all levels. This was followed by the opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas.

First-hand information
Information of all kinds was also provided by the representatives of the various industries, who drew attention to themselves with attractively decorated stands, flyers and information material. Sven Heinrich, workshop manager at Zugerland Verkehrsbetriebe (Zugerland public transport), for example. When asked, he didn’t think there was a lack of apprentices.

Plastering specialists are rare, but some people seem to be interested in this profession here
The Schützenmatt event was well attended.    
Yann Weber is doing well with the crêpe pan.     
Menzingen Vocational Show 2023: A hydraulics specialist presents his profession

Photos: Christian Herbert Hildebrand

On the other hand, they have to reckon with different offers from year to year, according to his experience. In addition, an apprenticeship in the automotive industry is still more likely to be taken up by young men.

The Sonnhalde training company of the Maihof Zug Foundation advertised itself by handing out crêpes that were prepared on site. Irene Bühler explained that this was mainly because the kitchen and household professions are an important segment. As a supervisor and advisor of apprentices who is open to new things, the contact with representatives of other sectors at this event was personally enriching for her, she said.

A guided career search
Nowadays, students begin to explore the world of work as early as the 5th grade, and continue this in the upper school. This was confirmed by Sarah Obrist and her friend Fiona Hegglin from the 2nd secondary class in Neuheim. Both have already completed their first internships and have a rough idea of what career direction they could take. They agree that they still have time to apply for a job next year.

Their teacher, Patrick Gilgien, who accompanied the class, told them that the visit to the vocational show, which is voluntary, had been decided upon by the majority of the pupils. In his eyes, this kind of event complements the efforts made in class to help choose a profession.

It’s important, however, to note that there are still several professions that are not represented at this show, he added. This is especially true for apprenticeships that are more suitable for girls. The distinction between occupations for boys and those for girls is still widespread, he concluded.

Next dates
The vocational show will continue on 3 and 4 April in the Dorfmatt hall in Risch-Rotkreuz and on 9 May in the Walchwil community hall
(Gemeindesaal). Further information can be found on www.berufswahlzug.ch.