As one of 30 IT apprentices from Switzerland, I was fortunate enough to be chosen to take part in a three-week “Silicon Valley IT Program” in California. During that time I worked on an IT project independently, but within a team, allowing me to gain valuable practical experience.
At the beginning of last year, my vocational trainer Daniela Burri informed me that I was one of 30 IT apprentices in Switzerland selected for a threeweek IT project in Silicon Valley. I knew right away that this was an opportunity not to be missed! And so, in the fall of 2024, I set out for California with the other apprentices, ready to embark on this exciting challenge.
The selected participants were divided into five teams and worked for different project leaders from various professional backgrounds – from Google Research, for example, or smaller Silicon Valley start-ups.
Innovative App Development
My team and I worked on a hardware device known as SwitchBox, designed to allow electronic appliances to be turned on and off remotely. SwitchBox is special in that it uses an SMS-based communication method which gives it an exceptionally wide range, making it extremely versatile. SwitchBox areas of application include such fields as aviation, agriculture and sports. The SwitchBox is controlled via an existing mobile app.
The app is already ten years old, however, so our goal was to develop a new app with additional functions for use via a website and a mobile app. We drew up designs, carried out research, developed prototypes and finally completed the end product, which we were proud to hand over to clients and the project management.
During the project we were based in different co-working spaces all over San Francisco. Working on the 38th story of the Salesforce Tower, from where we enjoyed breathtaking views over the entire city, was a special highlight!
Insights, Experiences and Lasting Impressions
We were privileged to take part in some exciting excursions as part of the project. In Palo Alto we visited the Google headquarters, known as the “Googleplex”, and Stanford University. In San Francisco we were invited to visit the Swiss Consulate and Autodesk, which provided further insights into international cooperation and technological innovation.
We were free to enjoy our leisure time at the weekends and in the evenings, and we made good use of this opportunity to visit local landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Russian Hill and Lombard Street. Our trip to Marshall’s Beach, which offers incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge, was definitely a highlight!
My three weeks in Silicon Valley were unique and unforgettable. I’m grateful that Pilatus made this trip possible for me. Carrying out a project independently not only allowed me to gain valuable project management experience, the open and innovative local culture also gave me precious insights and broadened my view of cooperation and creativity. Now back in Switzerland, I’m looking forward to using my new-found skills and experience in my day-to-day work at Pilatus, and I hope this will allow me to contribute my active support to both my team and future projects.
