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The lateral thinker
Gerhard Sprinzl, Autohaus Sprinzl on Dreyhausenstrasse in Vienna 14, withdrew from all public functions ten years ago. Now he says where the problem is in the industry.
The lateral thinker
Whatever you can’t move, leave it in life.” This is Gerhard Sprinzl’s philosophy. The industry professional, who was awarded the gold badges of honor from Vienna and Lower Austria, was previously argumentative and controversial, but today appears balanced and considered, pointed, but no less aggressive than before. Sprinzl began his automotive technician apprenticeship in 1971 and founded his own business just ten years later. This was followed by roles as an education officer and as a Vienna LIM deputy. In 2010 he wanted to know it one last time: As an independent with his own list, he ran against the then incumbent Viennese LIM Werner Fessl because he was convinced that there was an “urgent need for reform” in the guild. “The level of training and further education is very poor because everyone cooks their own soup,” said Sprinzl at the time.
“Not committed enough”
Today he sees the situation no differently: "The education system is devastating. There are more desk assassins than skilled workers. The image of skilled workers is bad, especially in Vienna. The advocacy group is far too little committed." Sprinzl advocates that officials “go to the companies” and not wait for members to get in touch. Small businesses need to be promoted efficiently and masters need to be honored and consciously asked to stand in front of the curtain. When it comes to apprenticeship training, Sprinzl is in favor of companies receiving money for training. "We do basic training and still pay the apprentice's compensation. This is going wrong." Everything should be turned upside down. “The ideal would be a two-and-a-half-year basic apprenticeship with a short vocational school so as not to lose touch with everyday business life.” The “apprenticeship with Matura” would also ensure “optimal opportunities”.
“Bad image”
When it comes to the generally bad image of teaching, Sprinzl has no illusions: "It's a federal matter. All state guild masters should pull together here. A lot has to happen." Nowadays an “unemployed doctor” is valued more than a well-trained skilled worker. Gerhard Sprinzl has left his time as an interest representative behind. He has officially been retired for three years. Peter Haider manages the business of his company in the 14th district. Sprinzl himself acts as a consultant.