Making career plans with VDM Metals
Whether you are a student or a graduate, VDM Metals offers a variety of opportunities to take on responsible tasks and an exciting working environment. The know-how is combined with your own knowledge, so that you are well prepared for everyday working life and can benefit from your time at VDM Metals. Developing the materials of the future together with VDM Metals.
Leonie Brinkmann has been a working student at VDM Metals for 3 years. She previously completed an internship with us and wrote her bachelor's thesis together with VDM Metals. She is currently studying for a dual Master's degree and works in the HR department.
“Whether you're looking for an internship or a working student job or want to write your thesis, you can find solutions and opportunities for everything at VDM Metals. VDM Metals is very flexible, so I can adjust my hours individually during the semester break. I felt immediately integrated into the team, as there are regular after-work events.” - Leonie Brinkmann
Entry opportunities
Trainee program
The VDM trainee program combines the advantages of direct entry with the benefits of a trainee program, making it something quite unique.
Right from the start, a high degree of responsibility and the development of specialist knowledge is an integral part of the program. At the same time, the program includes accompanying measures that enable the best possible start and lay a foundation for further development within the company.
- The philosophy of the VDM trainee program is systematic induction into a key position with the opportunity to take on a high level of responsibility right from the start
- Development program for junior academic staff in the areas of soft skills and methods to systematically support them in taking on responsibility as quickly as possible
- Systematic annual trainee review to compare the goals achieved and the development that has taken place. Feedback and agreement on individual steps for the further course of the program
- In addition to professional mentoring in the department, a cross-functional graduate of the trainee program is provided as a mentor for an optimal start in the company
- Building up knowledge is the be-all and end-all of the trainee program on the path to becoming an expert. We can draw on over 30,000 years of experience of the people in the company
- Every project can only be successful as a team. For this reason, overarching networks are actively promoted right from the start of the development program
Wladimir Borzov started at VDM Metals three years ago as an intern, was later taken on as a working student, and subsequently wrote his thesis with us. He is currently working as a Trainee in the Digital Transformation & Services department.
"Looking back, I am very grateful for the opportunities VDM Metals has provided me throughout my career so far. The company offers a clear development path and encourages initiative and commitment. During my time as a working student and now in the trainee program, I have always felt supported and had the opportunity to work on exciting, innovative projects. The variety of tasks and the chance to explore different areas have given me many new insights, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally." – Wladimir Borzov
Wladimir's experience highlights the opportunities for growth and development at VDM Metals, where employees are empowered to take on diverse challenges and shape their career paths.
The journey begings, what´s next?
Learning doesn’t stop after graduation. At VDM Metals, we believe in continuously developing the knowledge and skills of our employees, as lifelong learning is the key to our shared success.
We offer various development programs and opportunities for growth, including:
- Personal Development Discussions: Annual meetings to discuss individual development and career progress.
- Vision VDM: A development program for high-potential employees aimed at preparing them for future leadership roles.
- Mentoring: Guidance and support for employees planning to transition into specialized or leadership positions.
- Knowledge Transfer: Succession planning and systematic knowledge sharing to ensure expertise is passed on to the next generation of employees.
- VDM Leadership Compass: Unified values and shared leadership guidelines to foster a consistent and effective leadership culture.
The Open Training Program Becomes More Digital: Our world is too dynamic for rigid schedules and fixed seminar locations. The Learning Factory is the platform where all available learning offers come together, giving employees the flexibility to learn whenever, wherever, and on the device of their choice.
Key learning opportunities include:
- In-Person Seminars: Language training, IT training (EDV), and other specialized workshops.
- Webinars: Soft skills, methods and work techniques, and digital training.
- Digital Library: Access to resources on communication, presentation skills, industry-specific knowledge, and MS Office tips & tricks.
- In-House Training: Forklift, crane, aerial work platform training, factory tours, and compliance training.
By providing these diverse learning opportunities, VDM Metals ensures that employees can continue growing, developing, and contributing to the company's long-term success.
Appreciation and regognition
One of the Goals of our new training and Networking program for Working students and Dual students
As part of our new educational and networking program specifically designed for our working students and dual students, we offered a variety of exciting presentations.
First, Sven Haarhaus (Team Leader HR Development, Employer Branding, and Recruiting) discussed ways to achieve a Work-Life-University Balance. Following that, Dr.-Ing. Peter Maas (Head of Laboratories) shared his personal development journey at VDM Metals and outlined the future directions the company will take, particularly in the area of digitalization.
The event also featured a presentation by Philipp Verbnik (Head of Marketing & Communication), who introduced VDM Metals to the attendees. This presentation was not only valuable for the new working students, but also provided fresh insights to those who have been with the company for a longer time.
In addition to the interesting talks, there were fun activities for networking, a workshop to generate new ideas, and delicious food. The evening concluded with an entertaining Pub Quiz.
The workshop focused on various topics, including the satisfaction of working students at VDM Metals, potential future benefits, and further planning of the program.
We are thrilled with the large turnout from our working students and are pleased to see that they successfully networked and exchanged valuable experiences.
