This month we held the first meeting of Women Apprentices in RME (Reliability, Maintenance and Engineering) in Barcelona and Prague, an event that brought together more than 70 women apprentices from various European countries (France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Czechia and Poland). The opening ceremony was led by Francesc Roca, Secretary of Vocational Training for the Generalitat (Catalan Government).
Over the two day meeting, we organised various activities, such as round tables with the participation of different women leaders from Amazon, who shared their professional experiences, challenges they have faced throughout theirwork history, as well as their learnings, and encouraged the apprentices to make the most of their careers. In addition, we organised self-awareness sessions and workshops focused on diversity, as well as mentoring sessions and networking spaces to connect and share perspectives with other women from different countries.
Amazon Apprenticeship Programme: Dual Training for a Generation of Technologically Talented RME Women Apprentices event is a demonstration of our commitment to Dual Vocational Training, especially through our Apprenticeship programme, launched in 2020. This programme connects theory and practice in an apprenticeship environment that prepares trainees with the skills needed in the logistics and technology sector, focusing on specialties such as industrial mechatronics. We carry out this programme in collaboration with the Polytechnic School of Mondragón Unibertsitatea, combining academic terms of 6-8 weeks with intensive internships at logistics centres, and ensuring that participants can immediately apply the knowledge acquired in a real working environment.
Throughout their training, students are mentored by professionals who guide and support them, creating a learning experience where theoretical knowledge is enriched through practice on the job. This not only offers a competitive advantage for their insertion into the labour market, but also allows us to foster qualified talent prepared for the sector, with a deep understanding of our culture and operations.
Amazon and the alliance for Dual Vocational Training
Amazon's joining the Alliance for Dual Vocational Training consolidates our commitment to the development of the next generations and to female talent with the goal of increasing the representation of women in the technology, science and innovation sectors.
Through this collaboration, we aim to contribute to improving the education system and adapt training programmes to the current needs of the labour market. This initiative not only helps with the employability of young people, but also provides us and other companies with more skilled talent aligned with the practical demands of the industry.
Results and future of the Apprentices programme
The Apprentices programme has already trained more than 100 people in Spain, reaching 30% female participation, exceeding the average for the logistics sector (20%), and providing a high-quality experience to each apprentice. At the end of the programme, participants obtain an official qualification in Industrial Mechatronics, which, together with their practical experience, gives them a competitive advantage in the labour market. In addition, we offer a scholarship and competitive remuneration to ensure that the young people can fully focus on their development.
Through such initiatives, we reinforce our commitment to diversity and the professional growth of future generations. Training programmes and events such as Women Apprenticeships allow us to build an inclusive community, where young talent can thrive and reach their full potential, contributing to continued success.
