Careerbridge
Berlin, Germany — July 11–19, 2025 — Twenty motivated young people from the USA, Mexico, and El Salvador spent ten inspiring days in Berlin exploring the German vocational training system through the transatlantic educational initiative Career Bridge.
Accompanied by teachers in technology and engineering, as well as representatives of the Goethe-Institut USA, the participants immersed themselves in a dynamic program highlighting the unique combination of theory and practice that defines German technical, craft, and scientific education.
At the ABB Training Center Berlin, students tested state-of-the-art digital welding technologies using augmented reality and VR welding helmets. The Guild for Sanitation, Heating, Plumbing, and Climate Technology (SHK) introduced them to Germany’s dual vocational training model and its strong emphasis on hands-on learning.
A visit to WILO SE on Berlin’s EUREF Campus offered insights into innovative pump technologies and sustainable building solutions for both industrial and commercial applications. Participants explored advanced manufacturing processes and gained a deeper understanding of the company’s global production and distribution network.
The program also broadened perspectives beyond technical trades. At the Federal Employment Agency, the group received expert guidance on the German job market. The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society showcased IT training in a world-class research environment. Additional stops included the International University of Cooperative Education, the Center for Language Education, the Rahel Hirsch School, and the Cornelsen publishing house.
At the ST3AM Lab of WISTA Management GmbH, the participants discovered cutting-edge learning environments and discussed the skills needed for success in the workplaces of the future.
Career Bridge connects young people with German language skills from North and Central America to Germany’s world-class vocational training opportunities. The program is organized by the Goethe-Institut USA in partnership with the foundation Handwerk stiftet Zukunft.
