Deutsche Bahn Welcomes Record Number of Trainees as Financial Scrutiny Looms

Deutsche Bahn (DB) has marked a new milestone welcoming around 6,000 new trainees and students this fall, a new record in the company's recruitment efforts.

DB has filled positions across 50 apprenticeship programs and 25 dual study courses despite the challenges of a tight labor market, to which the company responds with innovative technologies to attract and engage potential employees. The company has introduced a virtual 3D world, where visitors can explore various job profiles in an interactive environment. Since its launch in June, more than 5,500 users have explored the platform.

DB Human Resources Director, Martin Seiler, stated, "Our young talent is our future! We are delighted about the many new talents who have chosen Deutsche Bahn as a training company and employer and are starting their careers with us," mentioning that committed and qualified employees are crucial for DB’s long-term growth strategy, known as Strong Rail. He added, "We offer high-quality, modern training and attractive, long-term career opportunities."

One of the key commitments DB has made to its young employees is a guarantee of employment after passing their final exams. "Our young talent has a secure future at DB. After completing their final exams, they are guaranteed a job," Seiler assured. Given the financial challenges the company faces, he also acknowledged the need to balance cost-saving measures with continued investment in the workforce.

Among the 6,000 recruits, the most popular training programs include railway workers in train traffic control, train drivers, and electronics technicians for operational technology. The company is dedicated to providing these young professionals with high-quality training, supported by 30 modern training centers across the country. Trainees and students will also benefit from various support formats, personal learning assistance, and state-of-the-art digital devices. Additional perks include travel discounts and rental subsidies for those who need them.

As RAILTARGET previously reported, since January 2022, an investigation by the European Commission has been underway to determine whether DB has been using state aid to cover substantial losses at its freight subsidiary, DB Cargo. These allegations suggest that DB may have unfairly absorbed DB Cargo’s operational losses at the expense of other market players who do not enjoy such financial backing, leading to concerns about illegal state aid. Despite generous subsidy programs approved by the European Commission, these proceedings could have serious implications for DB, as competitors in the rail freight sector argue that they are being unfairly disadvantaged.

Source: Deutsche Bahn; RAILTARGET