Classroom Meets Workbench
Rebecca, a student in Mannheim, talks about her dual degree program and what newcomers to Mannheim absolutely need to know
Reading time: 6 Minutes
Lunch break at MVV Energie AG has come to an end. Calm has returned to the nice company cafeteria. This is where we meet Rebecca for an interview. A native of Mannheim, she loves technology and her dual degree program at the DHBW. In the interview, she explains how she combines the lecture hall with the workshop and why she wants to kick-start her career at MVV Energie AG.
Ralf Laubscher
Rebecca, through your dual study program, you’re combining your studies at the DHBW with hands-on work at the partner company MVV. Was this a stroke of luck or a strategy with a clear goal?
Rebecca
That’s actually a strategy. I had already completed a purely theoretical degree program. But to get a taste of real-world work in this new field, I deliberately chose the dual study program this time.
Ralf Laubscher
By choosing mechanical engineering and electrical engineering, you’ve gone for a real powerhouse combination. Why exactly these two?
Rebecca
I’ve always enjoyed working with technology. It all started with my love of assembling furniture. The dual degree program combining mechanical engineering and electrical engineering is now the perfect fit for me.
Ralf Laubscher
How was your onboarding at MVV?
I’m not exaggerating when I say: The onboarding process at MVV is great! From day one, you’re integrated into the company and treated as a person, even if you’re just starting your apprenticeship. That feels really good.
Ralf Laubscher
Sometimes a lecture hall at DHBW, sometimes a workshop at MVV. Are you more of a theory person or a hands-on person?
Rebecca
I like both aspects of my studies. If I had to choose, I’d definitely go with the hands-on work. Being able to apply what I’ve learned in class right away, to actually feel what I’ve just learned—that’s exactly what interests me and what I enjoy. I’d love to show you what it’s like to work in the workshop.
Rebecca leads us into the training workshop. It’s a huge hall with numerous workbenches, tidy and sparkling clean. Rebecca has changed into safety shoes and a pair of work overalls.
Ralf Laubscher
How did your first day here at the MVV workshop go? What were your expectations—and what surprised you?
Rebecca
It was a great feeling to walk into the workshop, see those machines, and think to myself right away: Yes, I chose exactly the right degree program. As expected, we started with basic techniques like turning, milling, and drilling. I was pleasantly surprised by how much fun it was to put these skills into practice.
Ralf Laubscher
In the fields of mechanical engineering and electrical engineering, women make up only about nine percent of the workforce. Hopefully, things are different in Mannheim?
Rebecca
At the DHBW in Mannheim, the situation is already much better: In our program, women make up about 20 percent of the student body. Looking ahead, I think it’s important to inspire even more women to pursue technical careers. A 50/50 ratio would be ideal.
We leave the workshop. On the way back, Rebecca leads us through a floor lined with colorful, hand-painted pictures of Mannheim on the walls—a collaborative art project by this year’s group of apprentices.
Ralf Laubscher
Rebecca, how would you describe the team spirit here?
Rebecca
It’s a true sense of togetherness. A community that values each and every individual. My coworkers are always there to listen, and we help each other out.
Ralf Laubscher
What’s next after you earn your bachelor’s degree: Full steam ahead toward the MVV program?
Absolutely. I want to stay with MVV for the long term and help make the company climate-positive in a sustainable way.
Ralf Laubscher
Did the MVV’s goal of a climate-positive future make you think, “I want to be a part of that”?
Rebecca
Yes, that’s a very important aspect for me because I also live a sustainable lifestyle in my personal life. MVV is exactly the right company for me, because I want to have a career that’s meaningful and makes a positive difference for my hometown of Mannheim.
Ralf Laubscher
What is your personal “Mannheim moment”?
It’s not a single moment, but more of a constant feeling of ‘This is where I want to live.’ I was born in Mannheim, I’m just proud of that, and I’d like to share that feeling with others.
Ralf Laubscher
Was versteht man nur, wenn man in Mannheim gelebt hat?
Rebecca
Once you recognize and understand the layout of the squares—then you’ve arrived and have already gained some understanding of Mannheim.
Ralf Laubscher
If you had to describe Mannheim in three words—what would they be?
Rebecca
A city of squares, a cosmopolitan city, and a university town.
Ralf Laubscher
What’s your favorite way to get around town?
Rebecca
On foot or by bike. If you’re committed to sustainability, there’s really no other way. I would always recommend leaving your car at home when you’re in the city center.
Since Mannheim is very compact, you can get around very quickly on foot, by bike, or even by tram.
Ralf Laubscher
Which place in Mannheim feels most like “home” to you?
Rebecca
Luisenpark is one such place. It offers many lovely spots to retreat to, where you can relax surrounded by greenery right in the middle of the city.
Ralf Laubscher
What’s your favorite neighborhood?
I was born and raised in Lindenhof, but I’ve since moved to Schwetzinger Stadt and really like this neighborhood. Even though it’s centrally located and you can get to downtown quickly, it’s still a relaxed place.
There are lots of green spaces and many nice cafés and restaurants.
Ralf Laubscher
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working or studying?
Rebecca
I really enjoy taking walks along the Rhine or the Neckar. To unwind, a jog along the Neckar is the best choice. You’re out in nature and can let your mind wander while you run.
Ralf Laubscher
What’s your go-to tip for newcomers to Mannheim when it comes to going out—one that always works?
Rebecca
Whenever I go out with friends, the parties at the Schneckenhof in Mannheim Palace are a must. I highly recommend the Long Night of Art and Delights in Neckarstadt or the Long Night of Innovation and Culture, which offer exciting insights into innovative Mannheim-based companies and startups.
Ralf Laubscher
If you don’t happen to be eating lunch at the MVV cafeteria, what’s your recommendation for a delicious lunch break?
Rebecca
When it’s sunny outside, I love getting together with my coworkers for a picnic by the Neckar River.
Ralf Laubscher
Last question: Do you speak only Standard German, or do you also speak the Monnemer dialect?
Rebecca
(Laughs) Of course, I can speak the Mannheim dialect, too! But at school and at work, I speak Standard German so that everyone can understand me. One thing’s for sure, though: I don’t want to deny my Mannheim dialect, and I really enjoy speaking it.
We would like to thank Rebecca and MVV Energie AG for the insights and the wonderful interview.