BIKAR AEROSPACE named TOP Training Company 2025

“Our TOP training companies make a decisive contribution to securing skilled labour in Eastern Thuringia. By investing in the training of apprentices, they not only secure their own future but also strengthen the competitiveness of our economy. Especially in times of skilled labour shortages, it is more important than ever to support young talent and offer them excellent career prospects,” said IHK Vice President Falko Gaudig.

District Administrator Dr. Ulli Schäfer also praised BIKAR AEROSPACE’s commitment in the Greiz district: “The company offers highly qualified, future-proof jobs in Eastern Thuringia. Its dedication to vocational training is forward-looking, as it opens up long-term career opportunities for young people in the region. With an investment of around € 60 million at the Korbussen site, the company is sending a strong and lasting signal.”

Early responsibility and specialisation

Throughout the entire training period, regular development meetings are held to jointly define goals and reflect on milestones achieved. Exam preparation takes place in fixed study groups – supplementing vocational school lessons and intensive study phases. Trainers are always available as personal contacts, offering tailored support and targeted exam preparation.

From the very beginning, trainees are actively involved in day-to-day operations and take on responsibility early – for example, through direct customer contact or by independently preparing project materials. “We support professional interests from an early stage – whether in marketing, HR, or technical fields – and intentionally create space in the training plan so our trainees can set their own focus areas and continue developing,” explains Marcel Herzog, Head of Commercial Training.

High retention rate and regional commitment

With an impressive retention rate of 95 percent, BIKAR successfully recruits skilled and managerial staff from within its own ranks. “For us, it’s clear: our goal is to train apprentices with the intention of integrating them permanently into the company,” Herzog continues. In addition, the company regularly participates in job fairs, maintains partnerships with schools, and supports local clubs through sponsorships. “Only those who actively and visibly invest in young talent remain relevant in the job market,” adds Matthias Säckl, Head of the Training and Further Education Division at the IHK.

Outlook: New Building for Greater Capacity and Automation

With an investment volume of approximately €60 million, BIKAR has begun construction of a new state-of-the-art production facility, which will double the training and production capacity at the Korbussen site in the future. Completion is scheduled for 2026. Automation and digitalisation solutions play a key role in the new development.

Background:

Since 2019, the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) has annually honoured companies as "TOP Training Companies" in all districts of Eastern Thuringia as well as the independent cities of Jena and Gera. These companies demonstrate exemplary commitment to career orientation, vocational training, and the development of young skilled workers. More information in German language on TOP Training Companies in the Eastern Thuringian regions: https://www.gera.ihk.de/top-ausbildungsunternehmen