Pfeiffer Vacuum Apprentices at the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) in Wetzlar
09-11-2024
30 apprentices from Pfeiffer Vacuum took part in a four-day civil protection exercise at the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) in Wetzlar. Here, the young people gained basic knowledge and were prepared for possible future challenges. With the assistance of their technology and expertise, the THW is at hand to help the population in emergencies and accidents, both in Germany and worldwide.
Diverse topics and practical exercises
In small groups, the apprentices participated in various practical exercises, each lasting two days. Alongside experienced train drivers and volunteers, they covered a wide range of topics. This included the basics of rescue and evacuation as well as the use of complex technical equipment. The agenda also included the operation of off-grid lighting equipment and portable generators, as well as the movement of loads using towing equipment and lifting pads. Other topics included stone- and woodworking, and working with submersible pumps. The safe handling of ropes and ladders rounded off the program.
Jonas Raisch, an apprentice industrial mechanic at Pfeiffer Vacuum, describes his experiences there: "The event at the THW not only taught me valuable skills, but also gave me a sense of community and a special sense of responsibility. I learned to stay calm in difficult situations and help others."
Strengthening regional civil protection
Cooperation with the THW strengthens civil protection in Germany's Central Hesse region. It also offers the opportunity to recruit young volunteers. The trainees at Pfeiffer Vacuum not only gained valuable experience, but also made an important contribution to the common good.
Fig.: Pfeiffer Vacuum apprentices are prepared for various civil protection situations at the THW in Wetzlar
Source: Pfeiffer Vacuum
"Thanks to this collaboration, our young colleagues have gained a basic understanding of hazardous situations. We see an apprenticeship as a comprehensive, social mission. Under the motto 'knowledge creates safety,' these young people learned to act correctly according to their instincts in critical moments," says Erhard Harapat, training manager at Pfeiffer Vacuum. Helmut Gehrs, press spokesperson for the THW in Wetzlar, adds: "Our civil defence is well equipped. But our task is also to enable people to protect themselves in the best possible way in the event of a disaster. We are therefore all the more pleased about the committed participation of the apprentices."
