SCHUNK has been providing needs-based training for many years at its locations in Lauffen am Neckar, Hausen, Mengen, and St. Georgen. The company has repeatedly been recognized for the quality of its training, including with the DUALIS seal of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK – German Chamber of Industry and Commerce) and the “Top Training Company” award from the Chamber of Crafts (Handwerkskammer – German Chamber of Crafts). That SCHUNK ranks among the top training companies is once again reflected this year in the exam results, with SCHUNK apprentices ranking among the very best. “Training is more than technical knowledge. It is the first step toward a self-determined professional life. Anyone starting at SCHUNK today not only gains access to state-of-the-art technology, but also earns trust, responsibility—and the support of a strong team,” says Stefan Mühleck, Head of Training at SCHUNK.
All young professionals are trained early on to confidently handle technologies that are crucial for the future. To this end, the training and study programs have been expanded to include content on artificial intelligence: digital learning modules via the SCHUNK eCademy and the daily use of SCHUNK GPT — an in-house AI — are firmly integrated into the curriculum and designed to become part of everyday routines. Students also have access to workspaces at the Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence (IPAI) in Heilbronn, where SCHUNK has been shaping the future of AI from the very beginning as a strategic partner. “With our culture of innovation and strong networks, we are developing new processes and product ideas. That is why we encourage everyone in our SCHUNK family to be open, curious, and responsible when engaging with new technologies,” explains CEO Kristina I. Schunk.
SCHUNK offers apprenticeships in both technical and commercial professions. One often underestimated and less well-known field today is the machinist apprenticeship, which has evolved into an exciting high-tech career. Apprentices in this area learn a variety of manufacturing methods, how to operate state-of-the-art CNC machines, as well as subjects such as quality assurance, programming, and process optimization. They are an essential part of the company and are responsible for producing highly precise components. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit applications early for the 2026 apprenticeship start.
Beyond the standard training framework, cross-location projects promote the professional, social, and interdisciplinary skills of apprentices. One example is the SCHUNK Christmas market, planned and organized entirely by apprentices. In addition, apprentices engage in regional initiatives, such as building raised garden beds for the children’s farm in Lauffen. These activities foster responsibility, teamwork, and connection to the local community. The program is further complemented by exchange formats across locations and international experiences.
Team-building and values-based work are an integral part of training at the family-owned company SCHUNK. During the introductory week at the headquarters, company values were conveyed through facilitated workshops—not through frontal instruction, but playfully using “Lego Serious Play.” Participants developed group models for each value and derived behavioral anchors for everyday work. The results were then reflected on together with HR Director Dorothee D?ubel, to integrate the insights into daily collaboration. Kristina Schunk also personally reviewed the workshop outcomes, acknowledged the teams’ efforts, and welcomed the next generation to SCHUNK—a demonstration of living corporate culture. Stefan Mühleck says: “A career begins where young people have the courage to develop themselves and companies provide the space for it. At SCHUNK, we call that: Hand in hand for tomorrow.”
