I started my apprenticeship as a welder when I was 16—back then, it was still a traditional apprenticeship. I’ve been interested in technology and metalwork from an early age. In 2001, I started working as a welder at Graepel in Seehausen. It wasn’t an easy time: unemployment in the region was around 20 percent. My first contract was temporary and wasn’t renewed at first. I still remember it well. But just one month later, I got a call: Graepel brought me back.
Looking back, that was a pivotal moment for me. At the time, I decided to take greater control of my own career development. Alongside my regular job, I completed a six-month welding certification program on the weekends. As a result, I could no longer work the late shift on Fridays. Graepel made this possible for me and supported me throughout the process.
This training opened up new opportunities. The company asked if I could imagine becoming a welding engineer. To do that, however, I first needed a technical degree. So I started a distance learning program in mechanical engineering at HTW Berlin. For five years, I juggled work, school, and family—with in-person classes on Fridays and Saturdays as well as additional study weeks. I wrote my thesis in consultation with Graepel, focusing on a practical topic.
This was immediately followed by my training as a welding engineer in Halle. The timing was almost symbolic: on the day I completed my training, my predecessor had his last day of work. So I stepped right into a position of responsibility.
Today, I head up quality management at the Seehausen site. I also serve as the environmental management representative and deputy welding supervisor. Since 2017, I have been responsible for the quality department and have also been working with the sustainability team. Training young colleagues is also important to me.
When I look back on my journey today, I am grateful to Graepel for the opportunities I have been given here. The company has always found ways to support me and place its trust in me. At the same time, I believe that it doesn’t work without personal drive. You have to have the will to develop yourself further and embrace change.
My path from welder to Head of Quality Management wasn’t a straight one—but it was one I was able to take here.
