Start your career with a dual study programme at the Rattay Group! Theory or practice? With us, you don’t have to choose! A dual study programme at the Rattay Group combines the best of both worlds: in-depth knowledge at university and exciting practical experience in an internationally active industrial company.

What does it feel like to be part of our team? What is it like to start your career and what opportunities does a dual study programme at Rattay offer?

To answer these questions, we spoke to Kai Bäumler, one of our current dual students in the field of mechanical engineering. In this interview, he talks about his first impressions, exciting projects and gives valuable tips for anyone who is also considering a dual study programme.

If you want to actively shape your future, work in a strong team and help develop the technology of tomorrow, your journey could start right here!

Question: Kai, how did you find out about the dual study programme at the Rattay Group?

Answer:
I was looking for a dual study programme in mechanical engineering. Full-time study was out of the question for me because I would have missed the practical aspect, but pure training was also not enough for me. I then came across the dual study programmes on the Westphalian University of Applied Sciences website and saw that Rattay was listed as a partner company. After looking at the Rattay website, I was immediately interested – so I applied.

Question: What motivated you to choose this dual study programme in particular?

Answer:
I have always had a keen interest in mechanical engineering, craftsmanship and metalworking – I am particularly fascinated by screwing, working with machines and welding. It therefore quickly became clear to me that I wanted to go into industrial mechanics or construction mechanics. For me, the dual study programme perfectly combines theory and practice.

Question: Kai, you are still new to the company. Have you already been involved in any projects?

Answer:
Yes, I got to experience something exciting right away! From 18 August 2025 to 19 August 2025, I was on an assembly job at the Dillinger Hütte steelworks with two colleagues, including my trainer. There, we replaced 480 seals on hoses that are directly connected to the outer wall of a blast furnace. Even though my involvement was more indirect, it was an extremely exciting and cool experience for me.

Question: How do you feel about the working environment at Rattay?

Answer:
Very positive! I have great colleagues, I feel appreciated, and I am directly involved. After just three weeks at the company, I already felt like part of the team. Activities such as assembly or direct involvement in the company show me that I am trusted and allowed to actively participate – and not, as might be the case elsewhere, must sweep floors all day.

Question: How do you rate the additional benefits that Rattay offers its employees?

Answer:
I think the benefits are great! Even now, as a dual student, I receive additional benefits and support. A good example is that Rattay covers my semester fees – this is a huge relief for me and shows that the company is investing in us.

Question: What tips would you give to future applicants who are interested in a dual study programme at Rattay?

Answer:
I would recommend showing initiative and reliability. It helps enormously to take organisational matters into your own hands – for example, I voluntarily enrolled in preparatory courses for my studies. That makes the start much easier.

Qeustion: Do you already have plans for what you want to do after your studies?

Answer:
I don’t have any concrete plans yet. I’m open to anything, maybe there will be an opportunity to gain experience at one of our subsidiaries abroad. With a degree in mechanical engineering and practical training, I have a lot of options.