Zhao Qinglong, a student from the Changzhou Vocational Institute of Mechatronic Technology in Changzhou, East China's Jiangsu province, is optimistic about his career prospects after three years of training.

Zhao became a numerical control technology major at the vocational institute in 2019. In his first two years, Zhao learned theories and took part in training programs. One of the courses he took, CNC (computer numerical control) programming and machining technology, is developed by the school and Changzhou Transcend CNC Machine Tool Co, which is located in the same campus.

Zhao participated in training programs that last about two months every semester at the school's training base or the Modern Industrial Center in Changzhou Science and Education Town. "The equipment at the Modern Industrial Center is highly advanced and as same as those currently used by leading companies in the industry," said Zhao.

The 110,000-square-meter Modern Industrial Center, a public training base, was built by the local government, institutes and companies with an investment of 500 million yuan ($74.81 million). It is made up of 17 bases for different sectors, including mechanical processing, numerical control, welding, intelligent manufacturing, big data and artificial intelligence.

In the third year of school, Zhao became an intern at Jiangsu Hengli Hydraulic Technology Co in Changzhou. "The company offers a decent salary and I like doing technical jobs," he said.

Zeng Ronglin, human resources manager with Hengli, said vocational school students are preferred by manufacturing companies as they receive much technical trainings. "We also provide student interns with scholarships and a clear career path," said Zeng.