"In 2022, we set a goal to double the number of apprentices, which was around 50 at the time," reports Marco Stellmann, Team Leader of Industrial Training at VEMAG. "We have now achieved this. Forty new apprentices will start their careers at VEMAG on September 1. Then, we will be training a total of 119 apprentices."

Investments in equipment and quality
The significant increase in the number of training spots required an expansion of the infrastructure; the training workshop area doubled from 460 to 940 square meters. Just in time for the start of training, the apprentices now have a sufficient number of modernized workstations and high-class machines at their disposal.

Over the last four years, VEMAG has invested over two million euros, for example in CNC turning and milling machines from leading German manufacturers, such as Hermle and DMG Mori. "From day one, our apprentices work with professional equipment that produces the same quality results as our production machines. In some cases, they also take on internal production orders. That's practical relevance in action," explains Stellmann.

Training with prospects: a vital part of the company
In 2025, all of VEMAG's advertised apprenticeships were filled. This is no longer the norm, as many companies across Germany have reported, and Marco Stellmann confirms. "Training is of existential importance to us," Stellmann emphasizes. VEMAG currently employs ten trainers, five of whom work full-time in the industrial sector. "We have a highly motivated team and enjoy the full trust of management. It is our aspiration to offer the best possible training." This obviously pays off: Nearly all apprentices pass their exams, and all those who wish to remain are offered permanent contracts.

JAV organizes a warm welcome
"Growing together as a team is part of training at VEMAG," Anna-Lena Alpert knows from experience. Alpert is training to become an industrial clerk at VEMAG and the deputy chairwoman of the Youth and Trainee Representatives (JAV). "The working atmosphere is great, and we trainees are treated fairly. Above all, no one is left in the lurch if they need support or have problems, whether at work or school." There are also bonuses such as a company canteen, gym, excursions, company tours, and leisure activities like canoeing and karting.

The new training year kicked off with a get-to-know-you barbecue organized by the JAV on August 15. Around 150 people were invited, including apprentices from all years of the apprenticeship program, trainers, and management. True to VEMAG tradition, the burger patties and sausages were produced in-house. Our VEMAG customer center has EU food approval and regularly supplies us with fresh products. Our Bakery Innovation Center provided active support, and our colleagues from the cafeteria helped with catering. The first impression could hardly have been more authentic," said a delighted Anna-Lena Alpert about the successful evening.

Future plans and training opportunities for 2026
In the future, the training team aims to further digitize training materials and continuously modernize equipment. "Standing still would be like going backwards," says Marco Stellmann. VEMAG has already published the 2026 job openings — around 30 apprentices are needed for positions as industrial mechanics, cutting machine operators, mechatronics technicians, electronics technicians, warehouse logistics specialists, industrial clerks, technical product designers, and IT specialists for system integration. There are also spots open for a dual study program in computer science and mechanical engineering.