It has been 11 years since Ute first set foot in an Amazon Fulfilment Centre. "I started in Leipzig, back then picking out items for customer orders." professionally, it has not always been easy for her: "After the fall of the Berlin Wall, I was unemployed for some time. Although I was only 34 years old, wherever I applied I was often told that I was too old for the job."
Ute tried self-employment. "The number of orders coming in were inconsistent. It just reached a point where I had to accept that things couldn't go on like this," says Ute. Someone then told her that Amazon had some job openings. Despite being 55 years old at the time, Ute not only got a permanent contract with Amazon, but also the chance to start a new career. "I was supported from the very beginning. Nobody said I was too old for anything. What Amazon offers for professional development is not available at any other company," Ute is convinced.
At Amazon I was supported from the very beginning. Nobody said I was too old for anything.
For the Leipzig, Germany native, a childhood dream was finally within her reach. "Back then, I had always wanted to become a teacher, but unfortunately never quite worked out. That’s what led me to apply for a position specifically in Amazon’s training department". The training department is responsible for the training and professional development of associates in our Fulfilment Centres.
Ute has worked her way up: from her start as a “Buddy” who supports new employees during the induction phase, on to an Instructor, a Training Assistant and finally reaching her professional goal of becoming a Trainer.
Since the 1st of July 2020, she and other Trainers have been responsible for employee training and further education at the new Amazon Fulfilment Centre in Sülzetal near Magdeburg, Germany. “Amazon provides everyone who wants it, the opportunity to achieve something professionally”, says Ute.
Her initial training phase lasted 3 weeks: "During this time, more experienced Trainers were always at my side and I could ask them anything," explains Ute. "You are also able to take part in all the training courses being offered - with the aim that you can one day lead them yourself. The period was intense but at the same time a valuable experience".
Over the next 2 years, Ute aims to learn more about all the different facets of her career aspirations. After that, she plans to retire: "I have finally arrived where I wanted to be professionally. Now, I have a very good feeling moving forward."
Across our Fulfilment Centres in Europe, we are constantly looking for Trainers to support the new-hire induction, training and further development of our Fulfilment Associates.
