Business News
Heidelberg invests in training
Wednesday 02. September 2026 - With the start of the new training year on September 1, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) is welcoming 80 new apprentices and dual-track students across Germany. The challenging training program at Heidelberg supports strategic growth in the core businesss high-growth areas, namely, packaging and digital printing, as well as the development of new business units within Heidelberg Advanced Technologies. These units target exciting future markets such as security, energy, electric mobility, and automation.
Training as a strategic success factor for future-oriented areas
Heidelberg currently trains approximately 300 apprentices and students across Germany in 16 vocational training programs and 15 dual study programs. The training offerings are continuously adapted to the requirements of the markets and the company.
A recent example of this is the launch of the dual study program in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. With this program, Heidelberg is specifically expanding its expertise in the areas of data analysis, digitalization, and AI applications, skills the company needs as a systems integrator for the development of end-to-end solutions. In addition, the company requires the necessary capacity to develop new business areas, including at its subsidiary Heidelberg Advanced Technologies.
Patrick Höflein, who will begin the new dual-track program at Heidelberg as a student on September 1, is looking forward to the next step in his professional career: “After completing my apprenticeship as an IT specialist in data and process analysis at Heidelberg, it was clear to me that I wanted to focus on further developing my skills in this field of the future. And I’m thrilled that Heidelberg has long been using and further developing AI and is building up additional talent in this area. With the new dual-track program, I can combine my interests and skills with concrete career prospects while helping shape the company’s future. That’s why I’m very excited that it’s finally getting underway.”
“Our apprentices and dual-track students represent a major investment in Heidelberg’s future. They help us further expand our technological leadership as a system integrator, tap into new business areas, and sustainably support our customers’ success,” says Jürgen Otto, CEO of Heidelberg.
High-quality training tailored to our needs
Training at Heidelberg follows the principle of equipping young people with the skills needed to meet our long-term staffing requirements. In addition to a modern learning environment, trainees and students benefit from targeted support, regular development meetings, and a wide range of opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
“Anyone at Heidelberg who demonstrates above-average performance, commitment, and a willingness to learn will receive good development opportunities and interesting career prospects within the company,” says Melanie Jaklin, Head of Human Resources at Heidelberg.
Social Responsibility
In addition to professional training, Heidelberg places great emphasis on social responsibility and sustainable practices. Right from the start of their training, young professionals get involved in social, environmental, and sustainability-related projects in collaboration with regional partners and organizations. This approach fosters not only technical skills but also social competencies.
Info on Instagram: Anyone interested in an apprenticeship at Heidelberg can get a first virtual glimpse on Instagram: Under heidelbergerdruck_azubis, the apprentices post content they’ve created themselves about their professions.
2027 Application Period: The application period for apprenticeships and dual study programs starting in September 2027 is already underway.
During the selection process, the decision regarding an apprenticeship or study position at Heidelberg is based not only on school grades but also, in particular, on social skills and potential for the respective career path—especially in light of the increasingly important role of digitalization in the industry. All information about vocational training as well as the career portal can be found on the Heidelberg website.