The study , which was commissioned by the publications Focus and Focus Money, was based on 13 million online entries and an employer survey on different career aspects. Ferchau Engineering is number one for technical services. It was chosen because the owner-managed company invests in professional development for its employees and offers many opportunities to climb the career ladder. Invenio and Evomotiv follow close behind. For mechanical engineering, Kärcher is the top company due to its “excellence in fostering employees.” This is seen in policies such as flexible working hours, exercise options, and compensation for employees’ commutes. Technology corporation Kurtz Ersa and mechanical engineering company Uhlmann Pac-Systeme are ranked second and third, respectively. Formel D has taken the lead for automotive suppliers. The company impressed the evaluators with its employment options at various international locations, individualized training programs for new hires, and internal training projects. Witte Automotive and Brose Fahrzeugteile are close on Formel D’s heels.

Employee development programs have become indispensable tools to keep companies competitive in attracting career beginners. Consultancy Kienbaum has conducted a study which concludes that university graduates expect a lot from their employers. Top priorities include a friendly and cooperative working environment, appropriate work/life balance, and attractive career opportunities.