As we anticipated the warmest months of the year and prepared to celebrate VALPRO’s 60th anniversary, we were delighted to welcome 35 young people from Valmiera and the surrounding areas to join our team for summer work. Through the Valmiera Municipality’s Summer Employment Program for Students, 16 young participants worked at VALPRO this year. 

 

The youth engaged in a variety of age-appropriate tasks, contributing both to product manufacturing – including assembly and packaging of can accessories and support work in body production – and general maintenance tasks, such as painting, cleaning, and site improvement. In celebration of VALPRO’s 60th anniversary, they also participated in preparations for the festivities, took an active part in the anniversary events, and joined us in the Valmiera City Festival parade. 

 

We are pleased that all participants demonstrated responsibility in adhering to work schedules and company rules. Motivations varied greatly: some were highly driven, and we hope to see them again next summer, while others required more encouragement to fully engage. Understanding of work quality also differed among the participants. 

 

VALPRO has a long-standing collaboration not only with Valmiera Municipality but also with the State Employment Agency (NVA) in youth summer employment projects. We support our employees by providing summer work opportunities for their children. We are grateful for the extra hands and proud to play a role in shaping young people’s understanding of work, workplace culture, and company operations. We hope to have inspired them to start thinking about their future careers and the importance of education.