Koenig & Bauer (US/CA) has announced its seventh consecutive year of its apprenticeship program. The program currently has six apprentices enrolled and continues to provide participants with valuable skills and professional development.
The company is now accepting applications for its 2026 apprenticeship class. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by the deadline of October 15. The program offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement and travel.
“Our apprenticeship program has been a vital investment in the future of our workforce and our company,” says Chris Talbert, chief operating officer, Koenig & Bauer (US/CA). “It allows us to build strong foundations with talented individuals early in their careers, while also ensuring we maintain the high standards our industry demands. What makes our program stand out above the others is that our trainees are acquiring knowledge on the most technologically advanced printing equipment, while living in Germany, and learning to speak German with their factory counterparts. Our graduates are fulfilling key roles within our company.”
Recruiting for the newest class of apprentices has begun under the watchful eye of Ericka Luneau, director of human resources for Koenig & Bauer (US/CA). She and her team will be visiting Texas State Technical College (TSTC) campuses with Employer Spotlight Visits and job fairs speaking to students in various degree programs such as Industrial Systems, Wind Energy Technology, Aviation, and Mechatronics.
Since its inception, the program has adapted to both the apprentices and the company. The program has increased from 24 to 28 months. In addition to taking German language classes in Germany, the apprentices now attend weekly virtual German language classes and a two-week, in-person class with a German language instructor before they leave for Germany. They still live, train, and work in Germany for a period of one-year, generally in two six-month periods. Their time in Germany includes attending classes at the Apprenticeship School at Koenig & Bauer’s factory learning basic skilled trades, attending classes at its world-renowned Training Center where they learn about printing on the firm’s popular equipment, and working in the Assembly Hall from pre-assembly to final assembly. This training in Germany is supplemented with field training in the U.S. with mentors.
“In today’s competitive environment, programs like this are more important than ever—not just for developing skills, but for fostering long-term commitment and innovation,” says Talbert. “Most importantly, it helps us ensure we have the skilled expertise needed to continue delivering excellent support and service to our customers. We see this initiative continuing to evolve and grow as a key part of our talent strategy moving forward.”
