Modern Learning and Training Center Strengthens Workforce Development in the OWL Region
Bielefeld, September 30, 2026 – With the official reopening of the Training Center “by DFT”, Dürkopp Fördertechnik GmbH is expanding its commitment to developing the next generation of technical professionals in Germany’s Ostwestfalen-Lippe (OWL) region. The recently modernized facility on Potsdamer Straße has been transformed into a learning environment that combines practical vocational training, technical continuing education, and the targeted development of future skilled professionals. Today, more than 20 partner companies from across the region, in addition to DFT, already benefit from the training center’s educational offerings
Guided by the principle “Knowledge from Practice. From OWL. For OWL.”, the training center brings vocational education, professional development, technical training, and exam preparation together under one roof. The curriculum ranges from foundational courses in metalworking and electrical engineering to milling, turning, pneumatics, hydraulics, PLC programming, contactor control systems, and dedicated preparation for Parts I and II of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) certification exams.
“The training workshop is a place for learning, professional growth, and knowledge sharing. We combine solid technical expertise with practical experience and provide opportunities for both apprentices and skilled professionals. Our goal is to support people at every stage of their careers while helping companies systematically build and strengthen technical competencies.”
Sebastian Plack-Lika, Head of Training & Technical Service at DFT
The training center serves as a complementary learning environment for companies, apprentices, and skilled professionals. Through its broad offering of vocational education, continuing education, technical training, and exam preparation, it supports individuals throughout different stages of their professional careers. Companies gain the opportunity to expand qualifications in a targeted way and bring new expertise into their organizations. At the same time, participants benefit from a modern learning environment, practical course content, and ongoing opportunities to develop both technical and personal skills.
During the opening event, guests were given an inside look at the new facilities, had the opportunity to meet the instructors, and learned more about the training center’s role in workforce development across the OWL region. A guided tour demonstrated how theoretical concepts are directly connected to hands-on tasks involving machinery, tools, and technical systems.
For more information about available courses and booking options, visit the Training Center website (german) DFT Lehrwerkstatt.
Press Contact
Beatrice Richert
Team Lead Marketing & Communications
Mobile: +49 152 04260 293
beatrice.richert@duerkopp.com
About the Apprenticeship & Training Center “by DFT”
The“by DFT” Training Workshop in Bielefeld combines vocational education, professional development, technical training, and exam preparation for apprentices and skilled professionals. Its programs are designed for companies across the Ostwestfalen-Lippe region that want to supplement their training and development activities with practical, industry-focused learning opportunities. Hands-on instruction on real machinery, small class sizes, and experienced trainers from industry form the foundation of the concept.
About DFT (Dürkopp Fördertechnik GmbH)
DFT (Dürkopp Fördertechnik GmbH) develops, manufactures, and delivers sorting solutions for complex e-commerce and retail distribution operations, proudly made in Bielefeld, Germany. The company helps leading brands such as Zalando, Zara, Nike, Breuninger, Brax, and Walbusch manage their material flows efficiently, scalably, and reliably while optimizing returns processing.
With more than 550 employees at its Bielefeld and Gronau locations, over 340 completed distribution center projects, and more than 120 well-known brands among its customers, DFT stands for intelligent automation, collaborative partnerships, and long-term commitment that extends far beyond system go-live.
The company’s roots date back to 1954, when it first became known as a division of the Dürkopp Works in Bielefeld. Following its establishment as an independent limited liability company in 1995, DFT became part of the KNAPP Group in 2010. Today, it complements KNAPP’s portfolio with a broad range of sorting and sequencing technologies, serving customers worldwide.
