The aim of this article is to analyze the perceptions of young metal workers, between 18 and 25 years of age, of organizational and technological changes being introduced in the productive process in eight industries of the metal works and electro-electronic sectors in the Osasco area. Considering that these changes in labor redefine the profile of the worker and bring about new demands as to schooling, professional development, participation and commitment to the companies' objectives, the text discusses the young workers' relationship with school, work, industry and union. In the analysis of the young laborer, the perspective of European authors that accentuate youth heterogeneity is taken up. Thus, in spite of the common identity defined by the condition of being a worker, the young workers interviewed evaluate and interpret differently working conditions and situate themselves in a diverse manner in face of the changes.
education and labor; productive restructuring; professional qualification; participation; youth and labor