I started my career at Trocellen as an apprentice and have continued to develop through dedication, a willingness to learn and an enthusiasm for new challenges. Today, I am proud to contribute to the company’s success and growth as a Foaming Operations Assistant.

Tell us how long you have been working for the company and what position you started in.

I have been working at TROCELLEN GmbH in Troisdorf since July 2013. My career with the company began with an apprenticeship as a process mechanic for plastics and rubber technology, specialising in semi-finished products, which I completed successfully. Since then, I have had the opportunity to become familiar with various machines and departments and to continuously develop and specialise.

What kind of background and education do you have?

From 2013 to 2016, I completed my apprenticeship in the horizontal foaming production area, qualifying as a process mechanic for plastics and rubber technology with a specialisation in semi-finished products.

After about a year and a half in production, I began further training as an industrial supervisor specialising in plastics and rubber while continuing to work a four-shift schedule. I successfully completed this qualification in 2021.

How did you progress within the company?

After completing my apprenticeship, I was offered a permanent position as a machine operator in the horizontal foaming area. I had the opportunity to work there for several years as part of a fantastic team.

When I began my supervisor training, I was also given the opportunity to learn about compounding. At first, this was an additional challenge, but it proved very helpful later on. Because the plant operated on a three-shift schedule, I had more time there to focus on my further training.

Shortly before completing my supervisor qualification, I was appointed Operations Assistant and initially took responsibility for smaller projects.

When the Operations Assistant in the horizontal foaming area retired, I was promoted to that position.

I did not remain in that role for long before I was offered another new challenge as Foaming Operations Assistant. This took me into the vertical foaming area, where I had only limited experience at the time. However, it was precisely this new responsibility that helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What are your main tasks and responsibilities today?

My main tasks include planning orders, machines and staffing so that all areas are coordinated as effectively as possible and our orders can be delivered on time. I also work continuously to optimise our processes, including both machine parameters and workflows.

You have now been here for more than ten years. Why do you still enjoy working here?

Even after more than ten years, I still very much enjoy working at Trocellen. I see great potential in our company and want to be part of its growth. My goal is to use the opportunities available to us to help move Trocellen forward.

I also greatly value the working atmosphere at Trocellen. The close-knit environment is something special to me. Support from other departments is always available, and you are never left to face challenges alone. Our employees pull together and stand behind Trocellen’s goals. That motivates me to go the famous extra mile, even in difficult times.

Could you tell us a little about your private life or hobbies so that we can get to know you better? How do you balance work and private life?

As I am a bit of a workaholic, my motto is often: after work comes more work. 😉

At home, however, I mainly spend time with my children. Together, we take on lots of small projects, whether in the garden or renovating the house. They are always enthusiastic and keen to lend a hand.

For me, a good end to the day also includes a few quiet minutes with my wife on the balcony. We enjoy nature and the view over the city while talking about the day’s experiences.

What would you recommend to new colleagues who want to build a similarly successful career at Trocellen?

Never give up and do not be afraid of new challenges. Be prepared to go the extra mile from time to time. Dedication, commitment and motivation are recognised and appreciated at Trocellen, and they open up many opportunities for personal and professional development.