Germany's best trainers honoured

In mid-December, Germany's best trainers were presented with the "Ace of Training" award at the Federal Ministry of Economics. With this award, Wirtschaftsjunioren Deutschland (German Economic Juniors) and the Junioren des Handwerks (Young Craftsmen's Association) honours outstanding commitment in preparing young people for working life. Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy, congratulated the winners: "The companies and initiatives that we have chosen today as Training Aces are excellent examples of our strong German dual training system."

Some 43 companies and initiatives applied in 2018. In total, EUR 16,000 is awarded to the Training Aces by Inter Versicherungsgruppe, of which EUR 2,500 go to first place, the state secretary explained. Arriving as prize winners without knowing which prize awaited us, we were completely surprised when it was announced:

1st place in the category Industry, Trade, Services to Glaswerk Ernstthal GmbH, Lauscha

Glaswerk Ernstthal GmbH was chosen because not only traditional school leavers are taken on in the search for trainees, "disadvantaged" young people are also given a chance. It was clear to everyone that this demanded more from the parties involved than usual. Poor or missing school-leaving qualifications as well as the young people's lack of social skills posed particular challenges for the entire team. The reward for this high level of commitment is hearing the success stories of individuals who stay in the company after their training and who become part of the team as skilled workers.

This award shows that we are on the right track and further encourages us to do everything possible to ensure successful training and education.

Source: Training Ace, 13 December 2018, Berlin. Copyright: Inga Kjer / photothek