When Opportunities Lead to Personal Growth

We are constantly evolving as a company, and the people who work with us grow alongside us. Those who seize the opportunity can flourish with us, contribute their talents and develop further.

Isak Ramizi is one such example. He started with us almost 20 years ago, has continuously developed his skills and remains a valued member of the team. In this blog, he provides insights into his personal journey at KELLER Pressure.

How long have you been with KELLER Pressure and what position did you start in?

I started as an intern in the youth project in June 2007. The youth project gave young people who had not yet found an apprenticeship the opportunity to gain practical experience through an internship, thereby helping them to gain a foothold in the apprenticeship and job market.

The internship lasted 12 months. I worked three days a week in production and mechanical manufacturing (workshop). During the rest of the time, I received internal instruction in German, mathematics, sports, electrical engineering, pressure measurement technology, sensor technology and general education together with the other interns.

How did you come across KELLER Pressure as an employer, and what convinced you to join us at the time?

At the time, I was on a motivational semester, which was financed by the regional employment centre (RAV). My RAV advisor recommended the youth project at KELLER Pressure to me. 

Fortunately, I was invited to come and get to know the company and try it out for myself. Even during my tester week, I was particularly fascinated by the complex sensor production process. During my internship, I had the opportunity to work in various departments and gain a wide range of experience. As a Winterthur native, I was also impressed by the Winterthur location. 

How has your role changed since you joined us?

During the youth project, I found an apprenticeship as a mechatronics technician at the Winterthur Training Centre (AZW). The basic training took place at the AZW during the first year of my apprenticeship. The second and third years of the apprenticeship are spent at a transfer company. The AZW sought out partner companies for this, and KELLER Pressure was one of them. As I had already completed my youth internship here, the AZW asked me if I would like to complete my apprenticeship in the mechanical workshop at KELLER Pressure – which I was of course happy to do.

After successfully completing my training, I was allowed to stay at KELLER Pressure and was hired as a Mechanical Technician / CNC Operator. Since 1 January 2023, I have been deputy head of mechanical production. In addition, since August 2024, I have been responsible for training apprentices in our department. I am currently mentoring an apprentice Production Mechanic EFZ in their third year of training.

If you had to describe your current role in three words, what would they be?

Exciting, varied, challenging – and at times very intense. In recent years, we have carried out many process optimisations in our department, in which I was able to play an active role. It was a very exciting but also intense phase.

What support did you receive along the way?

The youth project was a great opportunity for me. I completed primary school and the first two years of secondary school in Macedonia before my family moved to Switzerland in 2003. After a year of integration, during which I learned German, I attended secondary school in Winterthur for two more years, followed by a motivational semester. At that time, it was not easy for me to find an apprenticeship straight after school due to my lack of German language skills. After submitting many applications during the motivational semester, I was fortunate enough to secure an internship at KELLER Pressure. During my internship, my apprenticeship and subsequently as a fully trained employee, my superiors challenged and encouraged me individually. In addition to internal support, I recently completed further training to become a team leader in industry, commerce and logistics. This gave me the theoretical tools I needed to perform my role as deputy in a targeted manner. In addition, the teaching master course provided me with a lot of valuable input for my role as practical supervisor of the apprentices in our department. 

How would you describe teamwork and corporate culture?

In my opinion, there is a great deal of helpfulness here. There are many long-standing employees, and despite the growth in recent years, the corporate culture remains very informal and familiar. There is a good team spirit, and it is a pleasure to come to work.

What makes KELLER Pressure special or «cool» for you?

The working hours are very flexible for an industrial company, which makes it easier for me to balance my career and family life. As a football fan, I also think the social support in sport, for example from FC Winterthur, is great. I am also impressed by the large new Diamant construction project, which is a clear sign that KELLER Pressure is continuing to invest in Winterthur as a location. Last but not least, I would also like to mention the positive atmosphere at the calendar distribution at the end of the year. Each department has the opportunity for a personal exchange with the management and receives a small Christmas gift.

What motivates you to stay at KELLER Pressure and continue developing your career?

I really enjoy my current job. I am delighted that we have recently been able to take on an apprentice in the workshop – I enjoy passing on my knowledge and skills to young people and helping them on their way into working life. I identify strongly with KELLER Pressure; to be honest, my employer has almost become like a second family to me.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining us?

Seize every opportunity – something small can turn into something big. If you see an exciting position with us, simply apply. And if there is nothing suitable for you at the moment, check back on our website at a later date or submit a speculative application.

What has been your best moment at KELLER Pressure so far?

A very special moment was definitely when I was offered a permanent position right after completing my apprenticeship. There have been many other wonderful moments too. For example, I really appreciated it when Tobias Keller (CEO) came to my workplace in person to congratulate me and give me a small gift on my 10th anniversary. That meant a lot to me.