Training starts at Dillinger and Saarstahl: Fit for the steel industry of the future

The newcomers are starting out in an environment that will change significantly in key areas: their training will also prepare them to work with the new systems planned as part of the Power4Steel decarbonization project, including the electric arc furnace (EAF) and direct reduction iron (DRI) plant. This will also involve qualifying them as industrial specialists for hydrogen.

“Our new colleagues are starting their training in one of the most exciting phases in the company’s history. The transformation to climate-friendly steel production is a generational task – and they are an important part of it. We are investing not only in technology but – first and foremost – in people who have the desire as well as the courage, curiosity and skill to help shape the future of Saarland’s steel industry,” said Joerg Disteldorf, Chief Human Resources Officer and Labor Director at Dillinger and Saarstahl.

Alongside the transition to “green” steel production, digitalization is a key aspect that is changing both the production and training processes. This means that young recruits work in modern learning environments and are introduced at an early stage to Industry 4.0 topics such as automation, programming and additive manufacturing.

Training for Dillinger and Saarstahl is a strategic component of securing skilled workers. The chances of being taken on after successful completion of training are therefore correspondingly high. At the same time, the companies see training as a social responsibility. Their aim is not only to impart technical knowledge to trainees, but also to provide them with guidance, teach them values, and promote their personal development.

Of the 58 trainees (including 8 young women) at Saarstahl this year, 52 have chosen the technical/industrial area and 6 the commercial area. At Dillinger, 57 of 61 trainees (including 10 young women) are starting in the technical/industrial area and 4 in the commercial area.

In addition, 29 young people from other companies are completing an apprenticeship at Saarstahl and Dillinger as part of the training partnership program. Collectively, the companies also offer 17 internships as part of the basic vocational training school year.

The new trainees were welcomed today in the Dillingen town hall by Chief Human Resources Officer and Labor Director Joerg Disteldorf, the training team, the Works Council and youth representatives. For the rest of the week, they will take part in “onboarding days” that promote team spirit and ease their transition into the company.