Major win at “FRAISA ToolChampions” 2022/2023

06.07.2023 | written by Gabi Olpp

The most talented Swiss young professional in high-precision metal processing comes from Bucher Hydraulics.

Manuel Nussbaumer is the national overall winner in the “CNC Machining” category.

The competition took place in the categories of “Conventional Machining” and “CNC Machining”. Manuel Nussbaumer received the award in the CNC Machining category, while Stefan Grba came out on top in the Conventional Machining category. The two winners surpassed over 1 000 participants from the microengineering, polymechanics, and production mechanics professional segments across Switzerland.

Who are the nation’s best?

The task is highly selective. Based on a given drawing, participants are required to create a perfect workpiece from aluminum and brass using milling, drilling, and thread cutting techniques. Participants have six hours to complete the task. To ensure equality of opportunity, FRAISA provides all the necessary materials. Drilling and milling were carried out either in the apprentice’s workplace or in a learning center.

The jury

The final selection of national and regional overall winners was made by a panel of external experts.

Stardom, car, prize money

Subsequently, the national winners in both categories were chosen from the regional winners. Manuel, as the overall winner in his category, received a car for one year, including vehicle tax and comprehensive insurance. The second and third-place winners received 1 200 and 1 000 Swiss francs respectively. The total prize money for the national and regional winners amounted to over 60 000 francs.

Celebration after work

All participants and their trainers were invited to the grand award ceremony at FRAISA headquarters in Bellach, Solothurn canton. The festive event began with a company tour, offering diverse insights into professional life at FRAISA. This was followed by a reception and lunch, culminating in the ceremonial award ceremony and presentation of the main prizes.

Training with trust, respect, and professionalism

We are extremely proud of the outstanding performance of our apprentice, Manuel Nussbaumer, and extend our warmest congratulations on his victory in the FRAISA ToolChampions competition 2022/2023.

For many years, we have been successfully training polymechanics at our locations in Neuheim (ZG) and Frutigen (BE). As an educational institution, we foster an environment characterized by respect and trust between trainers and apprentices. An open and appreciative atmosphere towards apprentices and their work is crucial for the quality of education.

Our apprentices are actively encouraged and motivated to participate in competitions. The entire team of the Quick Service Department, including the training workshop, supports our apprentices in learning CNC technology and is always available for guidance and assistance.

Interview with Manuel Nussbaumer

Why did you choose the apprenticeship position as a polymechanic at Bucher Hydraulics in Neuheim?

The training team, pleasant working atmosphere, and the company’s good reputation were all major factors. In addition, this profession offers diverse opportunities for further education in various specialized areas. Another significant advantage is the short distance between my home and the workplace.

What do you particularly like about the apprenticeship as a polymechanic?

The precision of this profession is fascinating. The impressive combination of high-precision machines and human skill is amazing. And the varied assignments always present new and exciting challenges.

How do you experience collaboration within the apprenticeship team?

Extremely positively. As an apprentice, I can always rely on the support of the entire team when faced with a challenge. With trust and comprehensive support, I was able to quickly work on increasingly complex and demanding machines.

How did you come up with the idea of participating in the Fraisa ToolChampions competition?

Since I started my apprenticeship, it has been my goal to participate in this competition. In our department, two people have already won first place in the FRAISA ToolChampions – in 2015 and 2019. This was a tremendous motivation! Ultimately, I was informed and actively supported by my trainer, Peter Böhi.

What was your biggest challenge?

At the beginning, I was a bit surprised as the module was completely different from previous years. Due to the continuously increasing precision and efficiency of the machines, the level of difficulty was significantly raised. However, over time, I was able to gain a comprehensive understanding and navigated the situation very well.

What are your plans for the future?

My primary goal is to successfully complete my apprenticeship and continue working at Bucher Hydraulics. I hope to have the opportunity to participate in the SwissSkills competition and achieve a good placement there. Additionally, I plan to pursue further education to broaden my professional horizons.