The students – all from the sixth semester – worked in small groups over several weeks on problems relating to production processes, material flow systems and R&D. Preparatory lectures and exercises from Prof. Hörstmeier provided a sound basis for the structured and goal-oriented project work. Hettich provided experienced specialists as mentors for the groups during the project. For the students there was also the challenge of time management and initiative, because they were expected to handle the project work in addition their lectures and seminars. This made the results they produced all the more impressive, especially for their wellstructured planning and creativity.

This cooperation is an example of how colleges and companies are working to strengthen the interfaces between theory and practice. What makes this project special is not only the fact that grades were given for performance, but also the opportunity for students to develop key skills – such as teamwork, cross-disciplinary thinking, and presentation skills – and to put them to use in industry.

On the basis of this pilot project, we’ve decided to continue with this type of cooperation and to expand it to include other higher education institutions. Already some of the students have shown an interest in internships, thesis work and work placements abroad with Hettich.