Since September 2005, I have been on an apprenticeship in business management at IST METZ and, after 2 ½ years, I completed it.

Apprentices go to vocational school twice a week for a total of 1 ½ days, to the Albert-Schäffle School in Nürtingen. The main subjects are Business Studies, Management and Control and Economics. Business English, Social Studies and German are also taught.

In the practical part of the dual apprenticeship, I have spent time in almost all the departments that are involved in the business process, e.g. purchasing, warehouse, accounting, sales, marketing and human resources. I have normally spent between 2 and 4 weeks in each department. This means that I have been in each department around three times during my apprenticeship and the duties I have been given and demands of the departments have constantly increased. The end result is that by the end of their apprenticeships (standard 3 years, reduced 2 ½ years), apprentices can work independently in almost any department.

As a prospective manager, I have been able to gain a very good idea of the departments I enjoy working in and where I would ultimately like to find a job.

Apprenticeships at IST METZ are very varied and interesting and I would recommend them to anyone who is open-minded and ambitious. The staff is friendly and there is a pleasant working atmosphere with lots of freedom but also plenty of responsibility. Throughout the company, a great emphasis is placed on friendly relationships. As an apprentice, throughout your apprenticeship you can count on the support of the training managers.


Stephanie Raichle,
Apprentice business management