The view from one of the terraces in the SWISS hangar at Zurich Airport can be overwhelming for newcomers. Looking over the various aircraft, one wonders how they were parked so precisely. Back on the ground, the sheer size of the planes is striking—especially in comparison to the mechanics working on them. Sinan Kaufmann and Engjell Amidi once visited these halls themselves and were equally amazed, as they laughingly recall.

Today, working in the hangar is part of everyday life for Sinan and Engjell. Sinan is in his third year of training as an automation technician; Engjell is in his fourth and final year as a polymechanic. Even though the sight of the aircraft has become routine, their enthusiasm remains as strong as on the first day. Together with their trainer Stefan Hilber, they guide us through the hangar and explain what they’ve already been allowed to do on the aircraft under supervision.

 

“I like the combination of technology and mechanics”

Both Sinan and Engjell are passionate about what they do—despite having arrived at their professions through different paths. “My grandfather was a pilot. We spent a lot of time at the airport when I was a child,” says Sinan. He’s always had an interest in planes: “It faded a little over the years, but it never completely disappeared.” When looking for an apprenticeship, Sinan saw that SWISS offers training in aircraft maintenance. “I knew immediately—this is it. I absolutely wanted to be part of the aviation world.” He applied for a position as an automation technician. “I like the connection between technology and mechanics.”

Engjell originally had a different career in mind. “At first, I was looking for an apprenticeship as a draughtsman,” he explains. Like Sinan, he eventually came across SWISS's training programs. “When I saw that they train polymechanics and that I could later work on aircraft, that apprenticeship became my top priority.”

 

The basics must be solid

Just like Madeleine and Marc from the first part of our story, Sinan and Engjell spent the first two years of their training in the apprentice workshop, where they learned the basics of their professions. The desire to start working in the hangar was definitely present during that time, they say. But the foundation is important. “The basics were necessary so that we could really contribute here,” they both agree.

How apprentices support work in the hangar—just like in most places—depends on how far along they are in their training. In his third year, Sinan often works with another trainee and other apprentices on the aircraft. They are guided and their work is supervised. “We often check each other’s work first before the trainer gives the final approval. We’re learning more and becoming more independent—that’s a lot of fun.”

For Engjell, in his final year, things already look a bit different. “In the fourth year, apprentices work hand-in-hand with licensed aircraft mechanics as part of the regular shift operations. In my current assignment, I’ve done nearly the same amount of work as the licensed mechanic. He’s always there, answers questions, teaches us new things—but he carries the responsibility for the completed work.”

 

Safety is the top priority

The great responsibility that comes with their jobs doesn’t faze these two young men—in fact, they appreciate it. “Of course, the responsibility sometimes adds pressure. But it’s also very fulfilling. When I go home in the evening, I know I’ve contributed to making travel safe for people,” says Sinan.

“I’ve noticed my attitude has changed a bit too,” adds Engjell. “When I finished a task in the training workshop, I was just happy to have completed it. But here in the hangar, I work as precisely and as quickly as possible. I never think about just finishing up and going home.” Trainer Stefan Hilber can relate: “Meaningful work is naturally motivating and fulfilling. That’s a big difference from purely training in the workshop. But the tolerance for mistakes decreases as the training progresses,” he explains.

Working on aircraft can be stressful, but polymechanics and automation technicians must not let themselves get pressured. Safety is the highest priority. To ensure it at all times, everything is done using checklists. “There’s even a checklist for changing a light bulb,” explains Engjell, offering another example: “Even if I’ve changed a wheel 400 times, I still use the checklist the 401st time. It’s about safety.” Every task is also documented, including which checklist or maintenance procedure was followed.

Trainer Stefan Hilber adds: “In the end, we expect the same from every aircraft mechanic and electrician: diligent work, reliability, and exemplary communication. We guide our apprentices toward that standard over four years.”

 

They plan to stay in aviation

Engjell will complete his training this summer. Sinan will follow a year later. Are they already thinking about the future?

“I’ll take it as it comes,” says Sinan. But for now, it’s clear he wants to earn all the licenses to work independently on aircraft. “I want to know what that feels like.” He expects that will take another two to three years.

Engjell’s outlook is similar: “First, I just want to work in my profession. But I could also imagine becoming a pilot one day.”