On the Job Training (OJT) for Don Bosco ITI trainees with MECON Limited for three months served as a bridge between foundational vocational education and real-world industrial execution. Designed primarily for mechanical and electrical trainees, this practical engagement exposed trainees directly to large-scale engineering, infrastructure, and technical projects handled by MECON.
A total of 53 trainees from the Machinist and Fitter trades underwent a three-month On-the-Job Training (OJT) programme at MECON from 5th August 2026 to 5th November 2026. During this period, the trainees spent the first half of each day at MECON, gaining practical exposure and industry-oriented knowledge, while attending classes at the institute during the second half of the day.
Topics Covered During the Training
The training program covered a wide range of technical and professional subjects, providing the trainees with valuable insights into industrial operations and practices. The major topics included:
- Introduction to steel production and the functioning of an integrated steel plant.
- Basics of AutoCAD and its industrial applications.
- Introduction to MECON, its organizational profile and areas of work.
- Detailed understanding of the steel production process.
- Heat treatment processes and their applications.
- Plant safety, machine safety and general industrial safety practices.
- Recycling and utilization of industrial by-products.
- Material handling systems and their importance in plant operations.
- Entrepreneurship and the fundamentals of starting a small business.
- Natural fuel refining and distribution systems.
- Water distribution and management systems within an industrial plant.
- Introduction to AC and DC motors and their applications.
- Overview of different types of welding and their applications.
- Steel structures and their design and suitability for various fields of application.
Learning Outcomes and Overall Experience
The three-month training program provided the trainees with valuable first-hand exposure to various aspects of the steel industry. They gained practical knowledge of steel production processes, developed a better understanding of industrial working environments and became familiar with different types of machinery and their functions.
The training also helped them appreciate the importance of safety at the workplace, including the need to follow proper safety procedures while operating machines and working in an industrial environment. In addition to technical knowledge, the trainees learnt the significance of teamwork, effective communication and providing proper guidance and support to fellow workers. They also realized that while having knowledge of multiple disciplines is important, developing specialization in a particular area is equally essential for professional growth.
Infrastructure and Learning Environment at MECON
The trainees found the MECON campus to be well-maintained, clean and aesthetically pleasing, with beautiful flower plants and abundant greenery. The professors and resource persons were friendly, approachable and effective in communicating technical concepts. The use of smart boards and other teaching aids made the learning process more interactive and effective.
The officers and staff members of MECON, including the security personnel, were extremely cooperative, helpful and understanding throughout the training period. Their support contributed significantly to creating a welcoming and conducive learning environment for the trainees.
The stipend provided during the training was also a welcome incentive. It encouraged the trainees to maintain regular attendance, punctuality and discipline throughout the program. The provision of good-quality meals after the training sessions was another thoughtful arrangement that was greatly appreciated by everyone.
Conclusion
The OJT programme concluded on a memorable note with an industrial visit to Pennar Unsha Martin, which provided the trainees with an additional opportunity to observe industrial operations and relate their classroom learning to actual workplace practices.
The three-month association with MECON was a highly enriching and rewarding experience for all 53 trainees. It not only enhanced their technical knowledge and practical understanding but also helped them develop essential professional values, workplace discipline and confidence.
The institute extended all possible support and cooperation to ensure the successful completion of the OJT programme. The trainees sincerely appreciate the efforts of MECON, its officers, faculty members and staff for providing them with such a valuable learning opportunity. The experience will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for their future careers in the technical and industrial sectors.
Trainees transition from workshop fundamentals at Don Bosco ITI to observing and operating alongside experienced engineers and technicians at MECON, gained hands-on exposure to advanced machinery, safety standards, and project workflows.
Exposure to a leading public sector enterprise helped the trainees build professional discipline, understand technical documentation and adhere to industrial safety and quality control protocols.
Abodh Beck & Somit Tirkey
(Machinist second year)