With DB E.C.O. Group Around the World – Dual Study Abroad

Key reasons for his application to the railway company included sustainability and the international presence of the DB E.C.O. Group.

Early in his studies, he learned about the opportunity to complete part of his training abroad, which immediately sparked his interest. Participating in our program for working abroad was the logical next step for him. Initially, it was unclear where he would spend his time abroad. This depends on personal interests, educational background, and the capacity of the foreign departments.  

The “Internationalizing Initial Vocational Training” program offers young talents at DB Engineering & Consulting the chance to work in one of the international project regions. Dual students and trainees can apply for an overseas assignment for a maximum period of three months. The program aims to promote both professional and personal development of young professionals while supporting the projects. Since its introduction in 2022, 49 career starters have participated in the program, including Jan Schneider. 

“When the program was presented, they said that you could quickly take on a lot of responsibility abroad. That sounded very interesting to me. I really like challenges,” he says. At that time, he did not yet know that Uruguay would be his destination.

Where the program participants end up depends on their own interests and educational background – but above all on the needs of the departments abroad. The small South American country turned out to be the perfect choice for Jan. The practical work and hands-on mentality there complemented his studies and work in Germany perfectly.

Earlier this year, the time finally came: Jan traveled to Uruguay. He now highly recommends this step to all aspiring professionals. 

In Uruguay, Jan supported a team for about three months, working for the Finnish paper producer UPM. UPM operates a new pulp mill in Paso de los Toros, with materials to be transported by rail to the port in Montevideo. To ensure this, the main line had to be renewed, a project supported by DB E&C through construction supervision and consulting services. Additionally, our subsidiary, DB International Operations, is responsible for the modernization, operation, and maintenance of the 273-kilometer main line. This line is part of an extensive government investment program and is expected to enable the transport of two million tons of pulp annually by rail in the future. 

This makes Uruguay a DB E.C.O. Group location where Jan could gather numerous impressions. Together with his colleagues, he documented progress as well as defects and damages along the entire route, which were subsequently forwarded to the customer. This work was new to him: less time at the laptop, more customer contact, and diverse perspectives that often require direct negotiations. 

Jan remembers his time abroad fondly. Taking on this challenge was very worthwhile: “It was the best thing I could do,” he says. “Being on-site and seeing the practical implementation of what you plan on the computer was a great experience. I met many experienced people and learned a lot.” 

For Jan, the time in Montevideo was an experience he warmly recommends to all young talents at DB E&C.