With 11 partner companies, 30 IPO students from HWG LU and 72 pupils from Max-Planck-Gymnasium (MPG) Ludwigshafen, the Company Day 2025 reached a new dimension. The joint project of MPG and HWG LU impressively demonstrated how strongly schools, universities and regional businesses can work together when it comes to real career guidance.
The day started in the auditorium of the Max-Planck-Gymnasium with a welcoming address by principal Mike Thisling-Pfeifer, followed by a welcome from Michael Möbius (MPG) and HR expert Stefan Berndt (HWG LU), who guided the participants through the day.
Under the motto "Apply. Encounter. Inspire.", the participants received a clear signal early on: this is not about dry theory - but about real encounters and real future opportunities.
A particular highlight of the kick-off was the keynote speech "My career" by Raphael Spengler, who gave the young people authentic insights into career decisions, detours and personal development.
Simulations, plant visits and a helipad
Afterwards, the groups of students were divided up among the participating companies and were given impressive insights. Some partners had prepared elaborate programs, including factory tours, practical stations, technical experiments and even a visit to a helicopter landing pad.
At ABB, the students experienced the company day in the special setting of the open day at the training center with direct contact to trainees, trainers and real working environments.
Practical job interviews and high quality
The core of the day was the simulated job interviews, in which two students acted as interviewers and one student acted as an applicant. Company representatives were present as silent observers and were impressed.
Several HR managers unanimously reported an "exceptionally high level of quality": very good preparation and clear interview behavior. A structured interview guide provided a professional format that gave both students and pupils a realistic picture of the profession.
Pupils gain confidence and lose fear
The learning effect on the young people was particularly noticeable. Many students stated that the interviews had taken away their fear of job application situations. Instead of insecurity, a new, self-confident image emerged: job interviews are doable, trainable and nothing to worry about.
A project with heart and soul and high added value for all sides
Both the school and the university made it clear that this project is based on genuine heart and soul. The close cooperation, the careful preparation of the students and the openness of the companies created an environment in which orientation, encounters and learning at eye level were possible.
The companies also benefited:
- Early contact with talented young people
- Realistic insights into communication and preparation skills
- Direct feedback from the young target group
- Strengthening of regional training chains
Joint Degree at the HWG LU
The day ended with a joint evaluation. Pupils, students and company representatives came together once again to share experiences, reflect on successes and make new contacts.
One conclusion ran through all the voices: The company day is more than just career guidance. It is a successful example of how early encounters facilitate career choices and build bridges between education and business.
The next company day will take place together with the Friedrich-Magnus-Schwerd-Gymnasium on May 28, 2025 in Speyer.
Stefan Berndt, Lecturer IPO
