After 2.5 years, VadoTech employees finally return to China

After two and a half years of global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 virus, the long-awaited moment has arrived - VadoTech employees can once again travel to China. In September, four new team members prepared for their international assignments by participating in a high voltage training course at our Berlin training center. We had the opportunity to speak with three of them - Alexander Lunkes, Marcos Gomez, and Manuel Weidenfeller about their unique application experiences and expectations for the journey ahead.

Meet our new team members

Alexander (30) comes from the Bitburg area and is a trained automotive technician. His career has already taken him to Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and France, where he worked in various roles, including vehicle construction, materials handling, and service management in the commercial vehicle sector. In his free time, Alexander enjoys long road trips and cross-country travel.

Manuel (31) hails from Montabaur and recently earned his master craftsman certification in Koblenz - finishing at the top of his class. Prior to that, he worked as an automotive mechatronics technician and underwent further training to become an automotive service technician. Manuel enjoys spontaneous weekend getaways and exploring new destinations.

Marcos (46) has a background in the automotive industry, starting his career as an automotive electrician before advancing to service technician and chief mechanic. He later took on the role of workshop manager. Outside of work, Marcos restores classic vehicles, rides motorbikes, and participates in mud races.

Insights from our new team

VadoTech: Our recruitment team is thrilled to have you on board. You’re among the first employees to be assigned to China since the pandemic began. Marcos, your hiring process started quite a while ago. Do you remember when your interview took place?

Marcos: My interview at VadoTech was back in 2019, and I have very positive memories of it. I spoke with a recruiter and an electrical engineer who had previously travelled internationally with VadoTech. I received a lot of direct insight during the discussion, which immediately sparked my interest. The pandemic pause allowed me extra time to consider my decision, and ultimately, I became even more certain about taking on this opportunity.

VadoTech: We’re fortunate that you remained patient! Despite the long wait, how did you find the application process?

Marcos: The entire process was smooth. There were moments during the pandemic when I lost hope that things would work out, but VadoTech kept me well-informed throughout. I never felt forgotten.

VadoTech: That’s great to hear! How did you first come across our job listing?

Alexander: I found it through a simple Google search, which led me to your website and YouTube videos. Manuel: I was searching for jobs in Asia and ended up on your site. The engaging videos and welcoming recruiter really made a strong impression on me. Marcos: I wasn’t looking specifically for this job, but I searched for “chief mechanic” on Indeed. I wanted to move away from traditional dealership work and explore new career paths.

Why Vadotech?

VadoTech: What convinced you to join us?

Manuel: The adventure! And the recruiter really made a difference. Alexander: I saw a great opportunity for personal and professional growth at VadoTech. Many of the locations where VadoTech and Zynit operate are highly appealing to me. Additionally, being part of AB Dynamics offers even greater career development opportunities. Marcos: The recruitment process helped answer many of my questions. I was eager to try something new and shift to a different side of the automotive industry. The combination of cutting-edge technology and an international assignment sealed the deal for me.

Expectations for China

VadoTech: Manuel, you recently passed your master craftsman’s exam in Rheinland-Pfalz as the top student in your class - congratulations! What are your goals in China?

Manuel: Honestly, I’m taking the plunge with an open mind. I know that working with the latest automotive technologies will create exciting opportunities for the future.

VadoTech: Alexander, you have a passion for travel. Have you ever been to China?

Alexander: Not yet! I’ve visited Indochina, but this will be my first time in China.

VadoTech: What attracted you to this assignment?

Alexander: I wanted to experience a country that’s difficult to visit as a tourist - somewhere vastly different from Germany.

VadoTech: Do you already have an idea of what to expect culturally, or are you approaching it with an open mind?

Manuel: I’m eager to immerse myself in a new and adventurous culture. Marcos: Visiting the Great Wall of China is definitely on my bucket list - I need to see it with my own eyes.

VadoTech: Are you concerned about quarantine measures related to COVID-19?

Manuel: Ten days in a hotel? Sounds like an opportunity to relax! [laughs] Marcos: I plan to use the time wisely - I’ll prepare for my Chinese driving licence. With books, podcasts, and Duolingo, the days will go by quickly.

Preparing for the job

VadoTech: Here in Berlin, you're undergoing high voltage training before heading to China. What are you learning?

Marcos: Safety protocols and procedural knowledge for working with high voltage systems - it’s essential training. My previous experience in this field was basic, so this course has been incredibly valuable. Alexander: We’re also gaining important insights into vehicle development, which will be useful in China.

VadoTech: Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to future applicants considering a role at VadoTech?

Manuel: Just go for it!  Marcos: Keep an open mind and listen - you’ll learn a lot.

Thank you for taking the time to speak with us! We’re excited to welcome you to our team and wish you a successful assignment in China.

Would you like to join VadoTech? Click here to explore job opportunities.