Tafalla Iron Foundry S. Coop., a benchmark in the manufacturing of engine components for the automotive and industrial sectors, has signed a collaboration agreement with CIP Donibane, a leading educational institution in professional training in Navarra. The agreement aims to facilitate internships for students, particularly for young people from the Zona Media region, thus contributing to sustainability and the socioeconomic development of the area. Students from CIP Donibane will begin their internships in various departments of the cooperative starting in December and January.
Through this agreement, Tafalla Iron Foundry commits to hosting students from the Center Donibane for professional training internships at its facilities. This initiative will allow students to apply their acquired knowledge in a real working environment, enhancing their employability and easing their entry into the labor market.
In addition to internships, the agreement includes the organization of lectures and visits to Tafalla Iron Foundry facilities for students from various study programs. These activities will provide students with first-hand knowledge of industrial processes and career opportunities in the sector, fostering their interest and motivation toward technical and industrial careers.
Ignacio Ugalde, Director of Human Resources at Tafalla Iron Foundry, highlighted the agreement’s benefits for the region: “This agreement strengthens our commitment to education and youth employment in Navarra. It complements a comprehensive program of initiatives with local entities aimed at training future professionals and fostering sustainable development in our community.”
The agreement was signed by representatives of both institutions. Representing the Integrated Center Donibane were María Company, the center’s Director; Germán García, Head of External Relations; and Xabier Alzueta, Robotics Professor. Representing Tafalla Iron Foundry S. Coop. were Edurne Gil, Head of Training and Recruitment, and Ignacio Ugalde, Director of Human Resources and Legal Affairs.
Commitment to the Zona Media region and specialized talent
In recent years, Tafalla Iron Foundry has implemented various educational and talent development initiatives to prevent the depletion of human resources in the Zona Media of Navarra (medium zone of the region). Among these, the educational agreement with CIP Tafalla stands out. This agreement, established last year, regulates aspects such as transportation subsidies, remuneration, meal allowances, and specific training in cooperativism. It is designed to train professionals in different operational areas of the company, including mechanics, electronics, welding, industrial robotics, production programming, machining, administration, and IT, among others. As a result of this collaboration, the two entities launched the Dual Intensive Vocational Training program in September. This two-year Industrial Mechatronics program combines theoretical and paid practical training within the company, providing the region with qualified talent and improving social and territorial cohesion.
About Tafalla Iron Foundry S. Coop.
Tafalla Iron Foundry S. Coop. is a cooperative specializing in the manufacturing of engine blocks and cylinder heads for the automotive and industrial sectors. With over half a century of history, the company has an international focus, exporting more than 95% of its production. In June 2023, the cooperative underwent a reconfiguration process to become a worker-owned cooperative integrated into the MONDRAGON Corporation, solidifying its commitment to cooperativism and social responsibility.
About the Integrated Center Donibane
CIP Donibane, located in Pamplona, is an educational institution offering professional training in various fields, including Wood, Furniture, and Cork; Electricity and Industrial Robotics; and Textile, Garment, and Leather. Since June 2013, it has been part of the Professional Training Integrated Centers network managed by the Department of Education of the Government of Navarra.
