EDUCATION IN PRACTISE

PRACTICE MAKES A SPECIALIST 

Solaris’ commitment to developing young talent began back in 2007 at the vocational education level. That year, our company initiated cooperation with the Vocational School in Murowana Goślina. The result of this partnership was the establishment of the Patronage Class program, which remains active and vibrant today, educating future mechatronics specialists. 

What does it mean to be part of the Solaris Patronage Class? For three years, students combine school education with practical professional training at the Solaris facility in Bolechowo. There, under the guidance of experienced specialists, they acquire real skills essential for daily work. All participants sign employment contracts as juvenile employees. This gives them hands-on experience and marks their first step toward professional independence. 

To date, the program has included 209 students, with more than 100 continuing their careers at Solaris. In 2013, the initiative was expanded to the Solaris plant in Środa Wielkopolska, where students from the Agricultural School Complex develop competencies in the field of welding. So far, 43 students have been trained there.

EDUCATION THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE 

Solaris’ commitment to the dual system also extends to higher education. Since 2014, in cooperation with Poznań University of Technology, Solaris has been running a dual studies program. Initially, it was offered in the fields of Mechanical Engineering and Logistics; it is now available in Electrical Engineering. 

The program includes 18-month paid internships and selected academic classes delivered directly at Solaris’ headquarters in Bolechowo. So far, 69 students have participated – 26 of them have secured permanent employment, and another 19 have started paid internships in various departments across the company. 

MORE THAN JUST JOB TRAINING 

The dual education model promoted by Solaris for nearly 20 years is not just a form of hands-on professional training. It is also a way to actively support the local labor market, develop engineering talent, and build a modern, knowledge-based economy. 

“Promoting the idea of vocational education is particularly close to our hearts as a bus manufacturer. In a world of rapidly evolving technologies, we consider the education of future employees to be one of our strategic priorities.” 

At Solaris, we understand that effective education is not just about the curriculum – it’s also about engaging communication and, most importantly, inspiring young people. That’s why we actively participate in educational events, school fairs, open days, and meetings organized by Poznań University of Technology, such as Engineer’s Day. 

A RECOGNIZED MODEL 

Solaris’ efforts are part of a long-term strategy for responsible growth. The company invests not only in new technologies that power its buses, but also in the people who will help develop them in the future. This is reflected not only in the numbers – over 320 students and pupils involved so far – but also in the recognition we receive from educational partners and awards, such as the “Angel of Dual Education”, presented to Solaris at this year’s Dual Education Congress. 

This award, granted by the National Career Advisory Forum, recognizes companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to developing vocational and higher education and to promoting the dual education model. Solaris was honored for its long-standing and consistent cooperation with educational institutions and for effectively preparing young people for the job market. 

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Vocational education, carried out in close partnership with industry can be not only effective but also attractive to the younger generation. We believe that investing in education is the best way to invest in people – in the potential and future of upcoming generations. For Solaris, it is also a powerful motivation to continue expanding our educational programs and to keep supporting those who are just beginning their professional journeys.