As of: September 28, 2024 6:00 a.m. | from the Norddeutscher Rundfunk logo
In the middle of the RBZ schoolyard at Schützenpark in Kiel there is a converted camper with a trailer full of machines and equipment. Carpenter Julia Spielvogel travels through Germany for a year and gives craft courses at schools.
Little by little, more and more students dare to approach the colorful vehicle and want to know what it is all about. Julia Spielvogel promptly pushes boxes, toolboxes and a large, rectangular box into their hands. “There’s a laser in there,” said the carpenter. Today the eight young people are supposed to build their own bee hotels using simple materials and various equipment – and learn a little more about crafts.
“Digital roller” for crafts
Julia Spielvogel routinely explains what needs to be done. Milling, drilling, lasering: the carpenter has every move right, no wonder, she has already given these instructions to almost 50 schools last year. The Bavarian originally studied art history and art education, but after graduating she decided to train as a carpenter. After her journeyman’s examination it was clear: she didn’t want to do a classic waltz, but she did want to do a “modern alternative”. The 28-year-old shares her experiences and impressions of the trip on Instagram and has become something of an ambassador. Your concern: Just because you graduate from high school doesn’t mean you have to go on to study – an apprenticeship could also be the right choice.
With modern technology against clichés
She gives the workshops at the schools on a voluntary basis, and the materials and machines are provided by sponsors. During her trip, the 28-year-old makes a living, among other things, by making video contributions for trade magazines or tool manufacturers.
In the RBZ workshop it has now become louder; people are milling, discussing and talking shop. 16-year-old Kelvin is currently working on the laser and is clearly impressed. Beforehand, he was able to paint a motif of his choice on a piece of paper and scan it – now the drawing is burned into a small, wooden disk. “I’ve never seen anything like that,” marvels the 16-year-old.
Modern devices are actually only operated by professionals. Spielvogel deliberately brought her along for this workshop. Because many children and young people still have an outdated image of skilled trades.
“They often think of “Master Eder”, silicosis and broken backs.” Carpenter Julia Spielvogel
In fact, this has little to do with the current job profile of a carpenter. Modern technology, such as computer-aided milling, makes work easier and faster in many places.
Call for more involvement in schools
Spielvogel doesn’t just want to reach children and young people with her tour. She is also interested in sensitizing other trades to attract young talent.
“It’s no use just handing out flyers. Craftsmanship has to be experienced – and the best way to do that is to show how it’s done at schools.” Carpenter Julia Spielvogel
After almost 60 weeks of round trip, their tour ends these days on Sylt. The carpenter is looking forward to soon having more space than in her camper. Nevertheless, as she says, there remains a laughing and a crying eye. What follows next? “I’ll let that happen to me,” explains the carpenter. But one thing is clear: she wants to continue to work for more young people in the trades.
More information
Schleswig-Holstein has the worst grade in Germany. At the same time, there is a lack of trainees. Is something going wrong? A column by Stella Kennedy. more
The new offer from the Lübeck Chamber of Crafts is in high demand from young people and interested companies. more
Schleswig-Holstein Magazine
This topic in the program:
Schleswig-Holstein Magazine | Sep 30, 2024 | 7:30 p.m
Keywords for this article
Crafts
