Vocational Training in the Skilled Trades

Two Paths,
One Goal in the
Joinery Workshop

Creating something with your own hands that is visible and tangible at the end is what makes vocational training in the skilled trades so appealing to many. Dominik and Jessica made a conscious decision to pursue an apprenticeship in joinery. They did not want to simply observe, but to design, test, and experience firsthand how an idea gradually becomes a finished piece. Now in their third year of training, they are approaching their final examination as journeyman joiners at REINHOLD KELLER, confident that they made the right choice.

The Courage to Start Over

Interview Ausbildung Schreiner, Portrait Dominik, REINHOLD KELLER

Dominik is 34 years old and has a calm and composed demeanor. He is the type of person who observes carefully, reflects briefly, and then moves forward with conviction.

Choosing to begin an apprenticeship was not a spontaneous decision. He originally trained as a certified network technician. While building his own home, he discovered how fulfilling hands on work could be. What began as a growing interest developed into the decision to start a new professional path.

In his personal life, he is first and foremost a father. Time with his daughter provides both balance and motivation. Walks outdoors and small home improvement projects are part of his routine. As he says, “You grow through challenges,” whether professionally or personally.

A Commitment to the Trade

Interview Ausbildung Schreiner, Portrait Jessica, REINHOLD KELLER

Jessica is 22 years old and knew early on that she wanted to learn a practical profession. She is particularly passionate about wood as a material. “You can create an incredible variety of things from it,” she explains.

In her free time, she often spends time in the forest. When she wants a bit more speed, she rides her motorcycle.

She describes herself as responsible and creative. With a smile, she admits that she can sometimes be a little clumsy. What matters most to her is seeing the result of her work at the end of the day. “When a finished piece stands in front of you, you know that every single step was worthwhile.”

THE PATH TO AN APPRENTICESHIP IN JOINERY

Like many applicants, Jessica and Dominik first learned about REINHOLD KELLER through an online job posting. After the initial contact, a trial internship followed.

Those days on site played a decisive role in their decision. Dominik recalls that he quickly realized the personal fit was right. Jessica felt welcome from day one. The exchange with their instructors and the teamwork confirmed their positive impression.

Another major advantage is the in house training workshop. Not every company offers this opportunity. Here, apprentices can learn at their own pace, practice new techniques, and improve step by step.

DAILY TRAINING BETWEEN WORKSHOP AND PRODUCTION

Each day begins with a team meeting. They review upcoming tasks and coordinate responsibilities. Some days, they assist in production, while on others they continue working on their own projects in the training workshop. With every project, their routine and confidence continue to grow.

Their enthusiasm for working with wood is evident. As Dominik explains, “Wood is incredibly versatile. You can give free rein to your creativity, shape it, refine it, and gradually create something of your own.”

Learning, Growing, Gaining Confidence

Training as a joiner requires precision, patience, and perseverance. It quickly becomes clear whether work has been carried out accurately.

Examinations, time pressure, and personal standards demand focus. At the same time, they build self confidence. Mistakes are part of the process. What matters is learning from them. Both apprentices notice how much more confident they feel when approaching new tasks today.

One standout project for Dominik was the construction of the large Aqua Chair, which was used as a photo installation at the Aquaphobie Festival. For Jessica, her handcrafted jewelry box was a highlight. Creating the dovetail joints entirely by hand required great precision. Shared activities such as the apprentice trip to Oberstdorf with rafting and hiking further strengthened team spirit.

Interview Ausbildung Schreiner, Jessica Lehrwerkstatt, REINHOLD KELLER

Combining School and Practical Experience

Both began with a foundational vocational school year in Miltenberg. During this first year, basic craftsmanship skills are taught in vocational school and reinforced through several weeks of practical training at the company.

Starting in the second year, vocational school takes place once per week. The curriculum includes workshop instruction, machine training, wood science, mathematics, installation, and service. Theory and practical experience are closely interconnected. Understanding measurements, construction principles, and material properties leads to greater confidence and responsibility in daily work.

Interview Ausbildung Schreiner, Dominik an Maschine, REINHOLD KELLER

Teamwork and Cohesion

What both value most is the strong sense of teamwork at REINHOLD KELLER. Whenever questions arise, someone is always willing to help.

With the final examination approaching, they now have 80 hours to complete their journeyman piece. This phase requires full concentration and demonstrates the level of craftsmanship they have developed.

Looking back, they primarily see their personal development. Initial uncertainty has turned into confidence. Individual tasks have evolved into a precise and responsible handling of materials, machinery, and processes.

For them, vocational training in joinery represents the ability to create something lasting with your own hands while growing in the process.