Working in several departments: an asset for training

HR, apprentices and the next generation at PWP SA

At PWP SA, apprenticeship is about more than just learning a trade. It's about build a route, to train complete profiles, capable of understanding the workings of the company, adapting to different environments and developing with a global vision. With this in mind, the company has for many years been implementing a strategy of interdepartmental rotation for its commercial apprentices.

To understand the concrete effects, we have gathered the testimonies of three people directly involved in this dynamic:

MarciaHR manager and trainer, herself a product of this system,
Sydneya former apprentice who now works in the accounting department,
Danielaa 2ᵉ year apprentice currently working in purchasing.

Three voices, three complementary viewpoints, to explore a tried-and-tested method.

Interdepartmental rotation: a tradition turned HR strategy

"This process has always existed at PWP, even back in my own CFC days. Today, I continue this tradition with conviction." - Marcia

Interdepartmental rotation is more than just a teaching tool. It is based on a training philosophy: to help people discover the company in all its facets, by encouraging cross-functionality and collaboration.

At PWP, the path follows a clear line:

1ʳᵉ year: service sale
2ᵉ year: purchases
3ᵉ year: accounting and HR assignments

"This provides a coherent link between practical work and academic training. We structure the course in line with the apprentice's maturity, achievements and prospects."

But beyond the organization, it's the human and professional benefits that matter.

"Apprentices better understand the meaning of their tasks, and gain in motivation. We avoid routine. And on the job market, this versatility is a real added value." - Marcia

Immerse yourself in the services to learn better

For Daniela, currently in her 2nd year, this immersion in several departments changes everything.

"I started out in sales, and now I'm in purchasing. What impressed me most was that first spell in sales: the real start, the moment when you leave school and discover the reality of the working world. I had to adapt quickly. - Daniela

This change of environment isn't just a technical challenge, it's a school of flexibility.

"Moving to different departments really prepares me for what's to come. I'll be more competent, more credible too. It's a real added value." - Daniela

Sydney, who followed the same route, confirms with hindsight:

"I was able to visit all the departments. That's what enabled me to understand the company as a whole. And today, I'm much more comfortable collaborating with everyone." - Sydney

She also emphasizes the relational benefits:

"This course enabled me to forge links with each team. I wasn't 'just an apprentice', I was involved, recognized and integrated into every department." - Sydney

Adapt, say goodbye, start again

Changing departments every year - sometimes even more than that - is no mean feat. Daniela expresses this with touching sincerity:

"It's not the rotation itself that's difficult, but the end. You get attached. And when you change, you have to start all over again. You don't know your colleagues as well, and you have to find your feet again." - Daniela

An emotion that Sydney shares:

"Every time there's a change, there's a little apprehension. But every time, the teams have made me feel very welcome. They've helped me find my place. And that makes all the difference." - Sydney

At PWP, this transition is anticipated and supported. Marcia organizes half-yearly assessments, discussion sessions and, above all, personalized individual follow-up.

"Each integration is a key stage. We don't leave the apprentice to 'navigate alone'. We prepare the ground, we support them, and above all: we value their commitment." - Marcia

A gradual rise in skills

With each new shift, our apprentices gain greater autonomy. It's not just a question of repeated tasks or know-how: it's also a question of meaning.

Daniela sums it up simply:

"Because I understand better what we're doing and why, I'm more efficient. I ask fewer unnecessary questions. And I become more autonomous."

She also stresses the importance of familiarity with the tools :

"You can find certain software from one department to another. We're gaining confidence."

For Marcia, this rise to prominence is visible as early as the second year:

"You can see the evolution. They're gaining confidence, they're more daring, they're asking the right questions."

A culture of transmission

This model does not exist without strong team commitment. And this is where the role of in-house trainers comes into its own.

"We ask our colleagues to take the time. To show their profession with passion. Training isn't an 'aside': it's a powerful act of transmission." - Marcia

But the dynamic doesn't just rely on experienced employees. Daniela emphasizes the richness of mutual support between apprentices:

"At PWP, there are several apprentices at different levels. We help each other. The older apprentices advise us, and we help the younger ones. It's a real strength." - Daniela

The lessons of a multi-service course

At the end of their testimonies, the three women deliver the same message: this system develops essential qualities for the professional world.

"What did it teach me? Adaptability. It's THE skill that has enabled me to get the best out of every department." - Sydney

"This system also forces us to review our fundamentals. Each rotation is an opportunity to redefine what is essential in our business. - Marcia

"I already feel much more competent. Programs don't scare me anymore. I feel ready." - Daniela

A formative and human vision of learning

What this approach reveals is a fully-fledged HR philosophy. Training at PWP is about growth. It means supporting young people in their professional development, while at the same time recognizing them as future employees in their own right.

"We don't train to train. We train to integrate." - Marcia

And the results are there: young people who are committed, competent and ready to take their place, with a global and human vision of the profession.

At PWP, training means passing on knowledge, but it also means "Transform.