Apprenticeship in Glass Production Technique offers additional qualification in Mechanical Engineering

10.09.2026: The glass production technique apprenticeship (hollow and flat glass) underwent a comprehensive review in 2026. Upon successfully completing their apprenticeship, graduates can now sit the final apprenticeship examination in Metal Technology – Mechanical Engineering directly, thereby gaining a second recognised qualification. The new arrangement broadens their career opportunities in industrial production.

Vetropack operates two production sites in Austria, in Pöchlarn (Lower Austria) and Kremsmünster (Upper Austria), where glass packaging is manufactured for the Austrian market and selected export markets. At both sites, the company has been training apprentices since 2018, thereby making a targeted investment in the skilled workers of tomorrow. 

The glass production technique apprenticeship combines a broad spectrum of technical skills and covers all areas of glass production and processing, as well as aspects from the fields of automation, control systems and mechanical engineering. This ensures that apprentices prepare for the requirements of modern glass production facilities and purchase versatile product skills for their future careers.

Supplementary examination in mechanical engineering

Upon successful completion of the training programme in glass production technique, graduates can sit the supplementary examination in mechanical engineering straight away.
The supplementary examination consists of a practical component and a technical interview. In the practical examination, a workpiece is produced using the skills learnt, such as turning, milling or welding. In the subsequent technical interview, knowledge of occupational safety, the use of tools and technical workflows are assessed using practical examples. 

Upon successful completion of both parts of the examination, graduates are awarded a second apprenticeship certificate. This means they hold recognised qualifications in glass production technique and mechanical engineering.

Broader career prospects

The new scheme further enhances the status of the glass production technique apprenticeship and opens up further career prospects for young skilled workers. The combination of specialist knowledge in glass production and additional skills in mechanical engineering creates a solid foundation for their future careers in industry.

“Glass production today brings together various technical disciplines. With the additional qualification in mechanical engineering, our graduates expand their specialist knowledge in a targeted manner and lay a solid foundation for their future careers,” explains Johann Eggerth, Managing Director of Vetropack Austria GmbH.