In addition to its wide range of degree programmes, the university also provides vocational training for young people in various trades, enabling them to enter the world of work.
Johannes Baeumer – HSRW
With its diverse range of study programmes, Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences (HSRW) is not only a place of learning and research for students. It also trains young people in various vocational apprenticeships and helps them enter the world of work. In the summer of 2026, three new apprentices and three participants in the Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ) began their time at HSRW. This means that a total of 15 young people are currently undertaking vocational training or a FÖJ at HSRW.
“Starting an apprenticeship or a Voluntary Ecological Year marks the beginning of an important new phase in one’s life. We want to support our young talent right from the start, provide them with guidance and foster an open, welcoming culture,” explains Katrin Bongertmann, Head of Apprenticeships at HSRW. To kick things off, the new recruits were therefore welcomed with onboarding days. These help them find their feet at the university and offer the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the organisation’s structures, areas of responsibility and key contacts. Personal interaction is particularly important here: in interactive discussion sessions, the apprentices and FÖJ participants engage in conversation with colleagues, other junior staff and managers. This gives them an insight into the diverse working environment at the university right from the start. “I wish everyone every success, exciting experiences and, above all, enjoyment in their new roles in the time ahead,” says Bongertmann to the new trainees.
The new faces at HSRW
The new recruits are embarking on their professional futures with different specialisms. Yeva Ivanova is starting her apprenticeship as an office administration assistant. Through placements in various departments and faculties, she will gain comprehensive insights into the university’s administrative processes. Delia Ewert is starting as an IT specialist for system integration, thereby laying the foundations for a career in the IT sector. Franziska Daute is completing her training as a technical product designer.
The training of young people is a top priority at HSRW. “A good apprenticeship thrives on trust, professional guidance and the opportunity to take on responsibility,” emphasises Katrin Bongertmann. “Thanks to the great commitment of our trainers and training coordinators, we can offer young people an attractive environment in which they can develop their strengths and actively shape their professional future.” Chancellor Dr Annett Schmeck also underlines the importance of promoting young talent: “Our apprentices and FÖJ participants bring new perspectives, ideas and skills to the university. This is a great asset to us. At the same time, we are investing in the skilled workers of tomorrow and strengthening the region and HSRW for the long term.”
Thinking about tomorrow today: Applications for 2027
For the training year starting in August 2027, Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences is seeking motivated applicants for the apprenticeship programme to become a media and information services specialist.
The deadline for applications is 31 October 2026. There are also opportunities to apply for a Voluntary Ecological Year at the Tropenhaus or the university’s Green FabLab.
Those interested can find further information on apprenticeship places, application requirements and the FÖJ programme on the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences’ careers page.
