Global skills – a passport to success

In today’s professional world, international competence can be a true game‑changer. That is why Pöppelmann supports young talents eager to look beyond their own horizons – for example through the Erasmus+ programme. This initiative, funded by the European Union, offers apprentices the chance to gain valuable professional and cultural experience in partner countries across Europe. The Adolf‑Kolping School in Lohne, a recognised vocational training provider, is accredited for the programme. Recently, three of our apprentices seized the opportunity to embark on unique internships abroad.

For Fiona Adamovitch, training as a Technical Product Designer, and Otilia Bulai, training as an IT Specialist, their journey led to Vouzela, a picturesque small town in inland Portugal. Their assignments took them through three different working environments. In a wood‑processing company, they refined their craftsmanship while focusing on precise manufacturing and stringent quality control. At an industrial assembly and maintenance firm, they learned the processes involved in installing and servicing complex machinery. In a local electronics shop offering repair and maintenance services, they gained practical skills in repairing laptops, PCs and printers.

Their learning extended beyond the workplace. Fiona and Otilia visited the Escola Profissional de Vouzela, a vocational school providing courses ranging from tourism and gastronomy to cosmetics. Outside of work, they discovered Portugal’s culture and beauty – exploring the rainbow‑coloured façades of the Costa Nova peninsula, hiking through unspoiled nature and marvelling at a spectacular waterfall. Each day added to a collection of unforgettable memories.

Meanwhile, Toni Wendelmuth, training as a Mechatronics Technician, travelled to Jászberény, Vechta’s twin city in Hungary, to join ThyssenKrupp’s programming division. Working on real‑world projects allowed him to refine his technical abilities and experiment with new methods. His time in Hungary was equally rich in cultural experiences. He walked the bustling streets of Budapest, climbed Kékestető – the country’s highest mountain, explored the historic city of Eger with its castle and thermal baths, and discovered the natural beauty of the Lake Tisza region.

For all three apprentices, the Erasmus+ internship abroad was so much more than a placement. Professionally, they strengthened their skills; personally, they developed a deeper understanding of other cultures and a heightened sense of independence and openness. The experience enriched their international competence and broadened their vision for the future. By supporting initiatives such as Erasmus+, Pöppelmann helps transform promising talents into confident, globally minded professionals – ready to play their part in shaping tomorrow.

Caption: In Portugal, Pöppelmann apprentices Fiona and Otilia gained invaluable experiences and forged new connections.