Two schools train students to become a mechanical operator:

- Centre de Formation Professionnelle Berne Francophone (CEFF), a vocational college in Saint-Imier, delivers courses in French, either full-time at the college or as a combination of classroom study and on-the-job training
- the Technical College at Centre de Formation Professionnelle (BBZ/CFP) in Biel/Bienne delivers full-time courses in German.

The student/apprentice is introduced to simple projects in metal construction and parts-making using a conventional lathe and milling machine, or stamping and piercing techniques, then learns about the installation, maintenance and servicing of machinery. Classroom studies in theory, technical drawing and general education complete the two-year course.

Source: CEFF St-Imier, BBZ CFP Bienne; SERI, Training Plan, November 30th 2010