Open house: BENTELER brings training to life

Paderborn, November 08, 2025. On Saturday, BENTELER once again opened the doors of its training center – and the response was overwhelmingly positive. More than 1,300 visitors came to the company’s Training and Development Center in Paderborn. Based around the theme of "Discover, Try, Experience", apprentices, dual students, and trainers offered a wide range of activities and insights into what an apprenticeship at BENTELER is all about.

Those interested in technology could get hands-on experience – for example, by making their own bottle opener or grill tongs, which could even be custom-engraved on site. Visitors also had the chance to try out a welding machine. There was plenty of fun, too: attractions developed by apprentices – such as a tic-tac-toe goal wall, air hockey, and the popular BENTELER rally with great prizes invited participation. A special highlight for motorsport fans was the UPBracing Team from Paderborn University, which presented its race car. BENTELER supports the student team as a Gold Partner. Visitors also had the opportunity to see the fully electric and autonomous HOLON urban shuttle from BENTELER’s subsidiary HOLON and talk with experts about its development.

“The open house day gives people a chance to get to know BENTELER better,” said Head of Training Fabian Fricke. “We want to show the many opportunities our apprenticeships offer young people in Paderborn, Bielefeld, Kleinenberg, and Warburg. It’s not just about watching or listening – it’s about trying things out. Once you’ve welded, programmed, or designed something yourself, you quickly realize how exciting technology can be.”

First-hand insight into apprenticeships, studies and retraining

Throughout the day, apprentices, dual students, and the training team were available to answer questions from visitors – from students and parents to those interested in retraining. The information on offer was broad and comprehensive: from technical apprenticeships such as electronics, industrial mechanics, or process technology to commercial apprenticeships, dual studies in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, computer science, and accounting and finance.

“We aim to prepare our young talent as well as possible for the future,” emphasized Fricke. “That’s why we continuously invest in modern training facilities, practical learning concepts, and personal mentoring.”

Training for the future: 128 new talents in 2025

BENTELER continues to build on its strong tradition of developing young talent. In the summer of 2025, a total of 128 young people began their apprenticeship or dual study program at BENTELER – including 108 in the East Westphalia-Lippe region. “We’re delighted by the continued high level of interest,” said Fricke. “Today clearly showed the strong enthusiasm for technology and craftsmanship in our region – and that’s exactly what we want to encourage.”