The ever-evolving manufacturing conditions and the new tendencies in the production sector development necessitate an educational reform in vocational schools in accordance with the updated requirements pertaining to the work force qualifications. As an organisation which trains staff for the vocational sectors “Automation of Production” and “Electronics and Electrical Engineering” and as the initiator of this project, Vocational school "Docho Mihaylov" will offer the participants the opportunity to attend a placement for extending and streamlining their vocational competences. The project participants will be able to build upon their basic knowledge of electronics, electrical engineering and automation by adding new vocational competences and therefore will increase their employment opportunities. The project will be joined by 20 students of Vocational school "Docho Mihaylov" who are currently being trained for the professions “Automation Technician” and “Electrician”, as well as by 2 project leaders who are specialists in this vocational sector. They will attend a one-month placement in Portuguese enterprises which operate automation systems. Main project objectives: Broadening and applying the vocational skills and knowledge of the participants in the automation of production sector; Training of staff whose background meets the requirements of the ever-modernizing economy and increasing their employability and career opportunities on the European labour market; Up-leveling the vocational skills and habits of the participants; Improving the quality of instruction at the high school; Promoting the positive reputation of Vocational school "Docho Mihaylov"; Transferring expertise, experience and innovations in the automation of production sector; Fostering a vocational culture and strive for continuous professional development of the participants in the context of the Erasmus + programme. The placement will take place in Portugal, the city of Barcelos, from March to April 2015. The project implementation will involve selection of participants, prior language, cultural and pedagogical training through courses; placements in an actual working environment, certification of the acquired skills and knowledge, promotion of the project activities. Expected outcomes: 20 students will acquire new competences for working in an actual production environment with automated and mechanical systems and equipment; they will improve their manufacturing culture and motivation for pursuing further vocational training; they will become more confident about their own knowledge and skills; new language competences in Portuguese, communicative skills and knowledge of Portuguese culture and traditions. From long-term point of view, those young people will increase their chances of future employment, they will boost their confidence as a result of the newly acquired experience and personal development. Another benefit will be the improved quality of education at our high school, the awareness of and interest in the automation of production sector. There will be established long-term connections between our school and the partner organization, AIAM, for an ongoing exchange of ideas and good practices for attractive methods of vocational training. The project participants will benefit from the placement in terms of acquiring new experience and certificates which will make them qualified specialists in the sector and will increase their employment opportunities. Another expected effect on the participants will be the boosting of their motivation for vocational training and education. We aim at enhancing their desire to pursue vocational qualification at our school and at winning the trust of the local companies in the vocational qualifications of our students. The project addresses the regional level needs for trained and competent staff, such as automation technicians and electricians, to be employed at the local manufacturing enterprises.