The new trainees and FÖJ participants began their training with what are known as ‘onboarding days’, which give the new recruits time to settle into university life. Alongside an introduction to the university’s structures and areas of responsibility, the focus is primarily on one thing: personal interaction. Through interactive sessions, the trainees and FÖJ participants forge their first connections with colleagues, fellow trainees and managers – thereby gaining a vivid insight into the diverse university life right from the start. “I am delighted to welcome the new trainees and FÖJ participants to Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences, and I wish them every success and hope they enjoy their training,” said Katrin Bongertmann, Head of Training at Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences.
The new faces at HSRW
The new recruits are starting their apprenticeships or their Voluntary Ecological Year with great enthusiasm: Luna-Noelle Koenen is looking forward to beginning her apprenticeship as an administrative assistant. Thanks to a rotation scheme, she will get to know the various departments and faculties during her training. Tim Kolodzej is embarking on a career in IT with his apprenticeship as an IT specialist for system integration. Maali Saad is starting her apprenticeship as a digitalisation management assistant, combining administrative skills with technical know-how. Luis Goedeke and Leon Tenbieg are completing their Voluntary Ecological Year at the university’s Tropenhaus, whilst Kaja Könemann and Celina Bieler are contributing to the Green FabLab on the Kamp-Lintfort campus.
Apprenticeships are a top priority at HSRW. “We are deeply committed to successfully guiding young, motivated people into their professional lives. We are therefore all the more delighted to offer them the chance, through high-quality and attractive training, to lay the foundations for an exciting career path with excellent prospects. This is made possible in particular by the outstanding work of our trainers and training coordinators,” emphasises Katrin Bongertmann.
Deputy Chancellor Nicole Burke is also delighted with the new recruits and highlights the importance of the training programme: “A practical and high-quality training programme is a top priority. These talented young people are already an asset to our university, as we benefit from fresh ideas, specialist expertise and greater diversity. Our trainees will be the skilled workers of tomorrow. Particularly in times of skills shortages, their future prospects and career opportunities are very good.”
Looking ahead to the future: applications for 2026
For the training year starting in August 2026, the university is seeking motivated applicants for apprenticeships as administrative assistants, office management assistants, IT specialists in system integration and technical product designers. The deadline for applications is 26 October 2025. In addition, those interested can apply for the Voluntary Ecological Year at the Tropenhaus and the Green FabLab. Further information can be found at hsrw.info/ausbildung and hsrw.info/foej.
