Internship Program 2026: What young professionals learned in a real industrial environment

Stabil Group’s 2026 Internship Program concluded with a final meeting, where the participants received their certificates and shared what they had learned. This year, the program focused on developing young professionals with technical backgrounds and giving them the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real industrial environment.

Five interns took part in the program. They gained experience in automation, manufacturing and information technology at Stabil Engineering, Stabilengineering-Alfa, Plexistab and Stabil Group. Each of them worked on tasks related to the day-to-day activities of their team, including automated systems, metalworking, PVC hose production, Microsoft 365 implementation and real IT support cases.

The feedback shows that 96% of the interns took part in real work activities and projects, and the same percentage believe that the knowledge they gained will support their future development. A total of 92% said that the program objectives were clearly defined. The feedback from their supervisors was also positive: 96% said that the interns integrated well into their teams, while 94% reported that they completed their assigned tasks effectively.

Behind these figures are personal experiences, real challenges and valuable advice from mentors and colleagues. We invited the five interns to tell us about the projects that made the strongest impression on them, the challenges they overcame and the lessons they will take with them.

Vladimir Kostadinov, IT Department Intern at Stabil Group, mentored by Dimitar Chavdarov

What I enjoyed most was working on the Microsoft 365 implementation. I had the opportunity to work with different companies and users, each with their own needs and way of working. Although everyone used the same platform, each company had specific requirements, which made the work varied.

The biggest challenge was dividing my attention and time among the needs of all the companies. This required good organisation and the ability to prioritise tasks according to their urgency and importance.

What surprised me most was how many different systems and processes support a company’s everyday work. As a user, you often see only the final result, but during my internship I realised how much work is needed to keep all services running reliably so that people can do their jobs without disruption. This gave me a much better understanding of the responsibility carried by the IT department.

The advice from my mentor Dimitar that I will remember is not to rush. In IT, acting too quickly can sometimes create additional problems, so it is important to analyse the situation first and then take the necessary action.

I would describe my internship as challenging, varied and dynamic.

Emil Sukmandzhiev, Production Department Intern at Plexistab Bulgaria, mentored by Ivan Teterekov and Haralambi Popov

The task I found most interesting involved the extrusion process and working with the technical specifications for different product ranges, including BULFLEX and BULVYL. It was exciting to see how raw material is turned into a finished product that is then exported to dozens of countries. What I liked most was seeing the direct connection between my work and the final result.

The biggest challenge was adjusting to the pace and level of precision required in manufacturing. At first, it was difficult to understand the different stages and to work with the machines and documentation as accurately as required. With the support of my colleagues, however, I quickly found my rhythm.

What surprised me most was how organised and modern the production facility is, and how much importance is placed on quality and teamwork. I had expected a more traditional factory environment, but I found that great attention is paid to detail, employee training and ensuring that the products meet high standards.

I will remember the advice that all my colleagues gave me: “Always ask when something is unclear. It is better to ask twice than to make a mistake.” This helped me feel more confident and learn faster.

I would describe my experience at Plexistab as hands-on, team-oriented and highly valuable.

Enrico Mitev, Automation Department Intern at Stabil Engineering, mentored by Dimitar Stremski

The project that was most valuable to me was building a Pick and Place system for labelling sacks. We were actively involved in the entire process: assembly, wiring, control panel configuration and connection, as well as programming and setting up the PLC, HMI and servo drive.

The biggest challenge I faced was developing the program for a 2D traversing printing system. I was pleasantly surprised by how warmly we were welcomed into the team from the very first day. Everyone was positive and willing to share their knowledge and experience.

The advice I will remember is to learn as much as possible from every colleague on the team.

For me, the experience at Stabil Engineering was productive, challenging and motivating.

Nikola Chakarov, Automation Department Intern at Stabil Engineering, mentored by Dimitar Stremski

The most interesting project I worked on was developing the control system for a Pick and Place machine. Programming the machine’s control logic for printing on film proved challenging for me.

What impressed me about the work of an automation engineer was the ability to analyse every possible machine design option in order to ensure safe operation and high productivity.

One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received was to pay close attention to the operating instructions in order to avoid mistakes and wasted time.

For me, the internship at Stabil Engineering was genuinely valuable, challenging and filled with hands-on learning.

Hristiyan Dimitrov, Production Department Intern at Stabilengineering-Alfa, mentored by Ivan Ivanov

My internship took place in the Production Department at Stabilengineering-Alfa, and my mentor in the program was Ivan Ivanov. I also had the opportunity to take part in installation work under the guidance of Plamen Mladenov and to learn about the work of the Technical Department with Stefan Mirev. All three gave me individual attention, supported me and guided me throughout the internship.

The project I found most interesting was the manufacturing of shell-and-tube heat exchangers, as I already had theoretical knowledge of the subject and was able to apply it in practice.

The biggest challenge for me was understanding the specifics of metalworking processes and learning how they are carried out in a real working environment.

What surprised me most was the depth and breadth of knowledge you need in order to do your job correctly and efficiently.

One piece of advice I will remember is that even after completing many specialised projects, there is always something new to encounter. That is why you should never stop learning and developing your skills.

I would describe my experience at Stabilengineering-Alfa as truly rewarding, varied and enjoyable.

We would like to thank Vladimir, Emil, Enrico, Nikola and Hristiyan for their willingness to learn, their responsible attitude and their contribution to the teams. We also thank the mentors and colleagues who shared their experience and supported them throughout the internship.

We wish them every success and believe that the 2026 Internship Program will remain a valuable part of their professional journey.