Solaris awarded for excellence in dual education

Solaris received an award in the nationwide “Angel of Dual Education” competition. The company was recognized for its long-standing and consistent collaboration with educational institutions, effective preparation of young people for professional careers, and active promotion and development of the dual education system. Through its dual education programs, Solaris has already supported over 320 young participants.

The award was presented during this year’s Dual Education Congress, as part of the “Angel of Dual Education” competition organized by the National Career Guidance Forum. Solaris received the distinction for its excellent results in implementing dual education programs and for its ongoing, committed cooperation with schools and universities.

Solaris runs dual education programs and supports the development of skills among young people entering the job market on two levels: vocational education and higher education. Over the course of a dozen or so years, more than 320 individuals have participated in Solaris’ dual education initiatives.

“Promoting vocational education is particularly close to our hearts as a bus manufacturer. For many years now, we have taken pride – and responsibility – in mentoring young individuals eager to develop their professional skills. In a world of rapidly evolving technologies, we consider the vocational training of future employees and the education of engineering talent to be one of our strategic priorities,” said Patryk Kawa, Chief Human Resources Officer and Board Member at Solaris Bus & Coach.

The company’s long-standing collaboration with educational institutions has had a real and positive impact on the local labour market. Since 2007, Solaris has run a Practical Vocational Training program in partnership with the Vocational School in Murowana Goślina. For three years, students from the Solaris Patronage Class gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in the mechatronics profession, working under the guidance of qualified engineers and specialists. To date, 209 students have completed the program at the Bolechowo plant alone, with over 100 continuing their careers at Solaris. In 2013, the company’s facility in Środa Wielkopolska joined the initiative, offering a dedicated training workshop for future welders. A total of 43 students have taken part in the program there.

At the same time, Solaris has also been active at the higher education level. Since 2014, in cooperation with Poznań University of Technology, the company has run a dual study program. Initially offered in the fields of Mechanical Engineering and Logistics, the program now focuses on Electrical Engineering. As part of the curriculum, students complete a paid 1.5-year internship, and selected academic classes are held directly at Solaris facilities. So far, 69 students have participated in the program, of whom 26 have joined Solaris as employees, while another 19 have continued as interns in various departments.

For many years, Solaris has been fully committed to supporting and developing vocational education in the dual system model. As one of the leading players in the European automotive industry, the company recognizes not only the need to invest in modern technologies and innovative solutions, but also in young people – the future creators of those innovations. Solaris’ efforts provide young people with strong career foundations, support local education, and strengthen the regional job market.