We’re ready for you – sign up for the new cooperative study program in Civil Engineering and take the first step toward a successful career. Deutsche Telekom is looking for school-leavers with a higher education entrance qualification to join the program in fall 2021 at the following locations: Mosbach, Heilbronn, Cologne, Bochum, Dortmund, Darmstadt, Leipzig, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Münster and Nuremberg.
The following interview with Michelle Tzieply explains what to expect in terms of duties and placements, the requirements that must be met, and how to apply. She works in the HR department at Deutsche Funkturm GmbH (DFMG), where she provides support to students on cooperative study programs and apprentices.
Hi Michelle, thank you for taking the time to be interviewed. This new course is not what we would necessarily expect from Deutsche Telekom. What is the thinking behind it?
Michelle: Expanding the optical fiber and radio network is a vital aspect of Deutsche Telekom’s strategy. Building this network relies on civil engineers to plan, manage and support the relevant construction projects. We anticipate that this course will create fresh opportunities in our existing teams, while also giving young people the option of a cooperative study program in a new field.
What types of practical assignments can students expect? What are the areas of specialization?
Michelle: Student placements will be in two different areas. Firstly, at Deutsche Telekom Technik GmbH, which builds underground networks, and secondly at DFMG, which operates the mobile communications network. The two areas of specialization are therefore structural engineering and civil engineering, and students will graduate as fully qualified civil engineers.
At DFMG, students will primarily provide support to the “planning” teams dedicated to the construction and implementation of radio transmitters. This includes attending site inspections and approving planning applications as well as commissioning construction work from our suppliers. They will also get involved in project management, because the masts and rooftop sites are commissioned and built by appointed providers. Other assignments at DFMG include the operation of our radio sites, in particular maintaining the cell towers and big masts as well as concrete refurbishments to the towers.
Could you take us through a student’s typical working day?
Michelle: The “planning” team begins the day with a status update on all ongoing construction projects, with each employee having their own individual responsibilities. Tasks include scheduling site inspections and reviewing new plans and quotes. This is followed by the preparation of planning applications and internal scheduling with other departments. The day might end with an opportunity to get hands-on and join a site inspection.
That sounds like an interesting and varied day. What skills and abilities do students on a cooperative study program in civil engineering need?
Michelle: As well as the basic requirements such as good university or technical college entrance qualifications, potential candidates should also have a keen interest in subjects like mathematics, chemistry and physics, alongside a passion for technology and digitalization, and be good team players. As well as teamwork they must also be able to work independently and respond flexibly to changes.
And how is the course structured?
Michelle: All students on this course will receive comprehensive support from the universities and colleges and will be integrated into the day-to-day operations of the company. At work, students are supported by a personal business expert, with whom they maintain regular contact. Additional support is provided by the program advisor, who assists with all aspects of the study program and acts as a point of contact for any personal questions and issues.
Michelle, thank you very much for this information and a fascinating glimpse into this new course.
Sound exciting?
Apply now! Interested in a practical degree course in civil engineering? Apply now and begin your cooperative study program with Deutsche Telekom this year! More information about the course and how to apply can be found here.
