Companies Scouring North Upper Palatinate for Fresh Talent: An Examination of Recruitment Strategies
In the picturesque town of Weiden in der Oberpfalz, Germany, a thriving ecosystem is fostering and promoting apprenticeships. The 17th training fair, held in the Max-Reger-Hall, showcased 120 companies eager to attract young talent, with at least several active apprenticeship openings as of mid-2025 [1][2].
Leading the charge is DHL, offering training positions such as Fachkraft Kurier-, Express- und Postdienstleistungen and dual study programs in business logistics starting in September 2025 [1][2]. Other companies, like HORSCH Maschinen GmbH, are actively promoting and supporting apprenticeship programs through roles like Werkstudent in Learning & Apprenticeship [3].
The Europa-Berufsschule in Weiden plays a crucial role in this endeavour, offering specialized training and certification programs like the "Roboterführerschein" and providing career guidance [4]. Local initiatives also encourage students to explore vocational training, offering events where they can learn about various apprenticeship offers [5].
Corporate apprenticeship programs, learning-focused roles in companies, vocational schools offering certification courses, and community outreach activities for students contribute to the promotion of apprenticeships and training success in the community.
Thomas Würdinger, director of the Employment Agency, confirmed the abundance of training positions, stating that there are more training positions than applicants [6]. As of now, 886 applicants have expressed interest in training positions in the district, with 520 being male and 366 being female [7]. A total of 1,300 applicants are expected for the upcoming training positions [8].
Despite the numerous opportunities, the town has faced its share of challenges. Two 28-year-old professional boxers suffered severe injuries and later died at an event in Tokyo [9]. A local derby between SV Poppenreuth II and TSV Waldershof II was abandoned due to a serious injury to a Poppenreuth player [10]. Moreover, a dispute in Weiden escalated when a man threatened his ex-partner and her new partner, prompting police intervention [11].
In a lighter note, a three-year-old child managed to escape from an apartment door, wearing only a diaper [12]. The incident, while concerning, brought a moment of levity to the town.
As Weiden continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to fostering apprenticeships and providing diverse training opportunities remains steadfast. The mayor, Jens Meyer, encourages young people to start their training in the region and stay in the region [13]. With the support of companies like DHL, HORSCH Maschinen GmbH, and institutions like Europa-Berufsschule, the future of apprenticeships in Weiden looks bright.
- DHL is among the companies offering job opportunities in the thriving apprenticeship ecosystem of Weiden in der Oberpfalz, Germany, with positions like Fachkraft Kurier-, Express- und Postdienstleistungen and dual study programs in business logistics.
- Other businesses, such as HORSCH Maschinen GmbH, are actively nurturing apprenticeship programs, providing roles like Werkstudent in Learning & Apprenticeship.
- The Europa-Berufsschule plays a vital role in this endeavor, offering specialized training and certification programs, like the "Roboterführerschein," and providing career guidance.
- With a growing number of applicants expressing interest in training positions, undergoing skills training, and career development through apprenticeships, the future of the local industry and business seems promising in Weiden.
