Three paths, one goal

If you want to experience technology firsthand while studying and earning a professional degree, our Cooperative Engineering Education Programme (KIA) are the perfect fit. At TRUMPF Sachsen SE in Neukirch, we met three KIA students who demonstrate just how diverse the paths to an engineering degree can be—and how practice and theory can be perfectly combined.

Theory and Practice—A Balance That Motivates

What all three appreciate is the constant alternation between theory and practice. “It was especially challenging time-wise at the beginning, ” Markus recalls. “But having my skilled worker certification in hand after just two and a half years is incredibly motivating.” During the practical study phases, what they learned was immediately put into practice—and often expanded upon.

As_{a KIApro student}, Marcel was able to jump right into project work. Max praises the freedom to develop his own concepts: In his practical work, he’s working on optimizing the costs of a system. Markus’s practical work even led to an internal invention report and an inventor’s bonus—and is now being further developed as part of his Diplom thesis, including a patent application.

In addition to these technical highlights, there were also challenges: For Markus, it was the long commutes during the first semesters; for Marcel, it was the demanding theoretical courses such as control engineering; and for Max, it was a module that didn’t suit him as well. However, they all agree: These hurdles have shaped and strengthened them.

More Than Just Technical Knowledge

The three have not only gained technical understanding but have also developed important personal skills. For Markus, self-organization tops the list. Marcel emphasizes: “Problem-solving—that’s something I’ll take with me for life.” Max adds: “Teamwork and collaborative problem-solving are crucial, and that’s exactly what’s encouraged here.”

These skills were solidified early on: During the ComeIn weeks before the start of their studies, they made connections, found study groups, and built a network that continues to help them in their studies today. TRUMPF Sachsen SE itself also actively supports team building during the training period.

Advice for the Undecided

“Others before me have done it too—so why not just give it a try?” says Max. For him, that means facing challenges and growing through them. Markus and Marcel also advise being open-minded and embracing new experiences—because that’s exactly where the great opportunity of a KIA (sandwich-style) degree course lies.

Bright Prospects

Despite a challenging economic climate, TRUMPF Sachsen SE offered both Markus and Marcel permanent positions immediately after graduation—and even gave them a say in which department they’d like to join. “That was important to us, and it was taken into account, ” emphasizes Markus. Max is currently focusing on completing his degree and will write his Diplom thesis next year.

Martin Gruhle, training coordinator at TRUMPF Sachsen, summarizes why KIA is so valuable to the company: “KIA students know the practical fundamentals, bring solid technical knowledge to the table, and are a good fit for us as people—and that’s exactly what we look for in our selection process.”

Interested in finding the perfect balance between theory and practice? Then take a look at our KIA degree programmes—maybe the next success story starts here.

Photos: Tine Jurtz