“My apprenticeship gave me confidence in my skills”
I joined PSE in 2024 to enroll in a preparatory class at the vocational training institute. When it came time to choose a field of study, construction was a natural choice for me.
The previous year, I had participated in the training show organized by PSE, as well as in career guidance sessions led by the school. After graduating from high school, I was very interested in the construction field. Thanks to the advice of the faculty and alumni who were there, as well as my own passion for the field, I made the obvious choice to enroll in the School of Construction to develop my technical skills and prepare for my professional future.
Looking back now, I don’t regret my choice. I’m very happy because the teachers have been very supportive on my studies, and that’s even helped me become valedictorian of my class! The teachers genuinely care about their students’ success, which motivates me even more to work hard.
The classrooms are well-equipped with materials suited for hands-on sessions following the theoretical classes. During the practical work, we learn to use various tools and techniques related to building maintenance, which allows us to gain solid technical and professional knowledge. As a girl in this program, I don’t feel any discrimination or inequality.
Sreypov tells us more about what she learns every day at school
In our building maintenance program, we have two types of classes. During the theory classes, we learn how equipment and materials work, as well as how to use them in various fields such as masonry, painting, carpentry, basic repairs, and the maintenance of equipment and infrastructure. We also learn digital drafting to create building plans.
In practical sessions, the teachers introduce us to a piece of equipment or a tool, then show us how to use it correctly. Afterward, we test them ourselves to verify that they work properly and to apply the techniques we learned in class.
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In addition to technical courses, we also take classes in math, English, and computer science (including inventory management).
We also take soft skills courses, where we learn how to write a resume and prepare for job interviews.
Today, she is in a work-study program with our partner, Peng Huot.
Before joining a PSE partner company, our skills are first assessed by our teachers to ensure that our profile matches the expectations of employers. But the companies are also evaluated to ensure they will offer us good working conditions!
For my part, I’m in a work-study program at Borey Peng Huot. I work with supervisors and technicians on maintenance tasks for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. I’ve also been able to participate in tiling and painting work on various types of surfaces, including wood, walls, and steel.
I’ve also helped install and maintain air conditioning systems and electrical equipment, and assisted in preparing material and tool inventories to ensure they’re available for daily operations.
“Our partnership with PSE began about three years ago. At first, we worked mainly with the hospitality and culinary arts school. Then, through the student placement department, we discovered that PSE also has a construction school that trains students in building maintenance. PSE students demonstrate strong learning abilities and a professional attitude that is highly valued by our teams.” Yuon Chanta, Operations Manager at Peng Huot
I had never worked with wood or metal before, and handling administrative procedures is also a new skill for me. I was able to put my knowledge into practice in real-world situations and gain a better understanding of how things work on the job.
This professional experience is really important for better understanding my skill level and comparing it with the demands of the professional world so I can adapt to the current needs of the job market. The field of building maintenance requires a great deal of precision, responsibility, and adaptability, and I was able to improve in precisely these areas.
“After she was hired, we asked her why she had chosen this career. She explained that she had a clear vision, specific goals, and a genuine dream of building a career in this field. We were very impressed by her determination. Today, she has become a true role model for everyone, especially young girls. Her journey inspires many people and encourages more women to join this field, which remains predominantly male.” Yuon Chanta, Operations Manager at Peng Huot
Today, Sreypov is proud of the positive feedback she has received and the skills she has developed.
My work-study program ends in a month, and I now have a clearer picture of my professional future. I think I’ll be able to find a job because I feel confident thanks to my performance at the company.
Throughout my work-study program, I’ve felt more independent. I’m now able to work on my own with less guidance and supervision from my team. I’ve also received positive feedback from the team and my manager regarding the quality of my work and my performance.
To conclude, Sreypov told us that she would very much like to work as a technician at an airport. We hope she gets to fulfill that dream!
*Sreypov is a pseudonym used to protect the student’s identity.