Trainee Trip to Le Mans – An Experience that connects

Nele is an HR Manager at the FRICKE Group and accompanied the trainee trip to Le Mans in France. She shares her experiences in the blog post!

There are moments on the job that you don’t forget very quickly. For me, November 19th is definitely one of them – the start of our two-day trainee trip to Le Mans with 57 apprentices: future agricultural and construction machinery mechatronics technicians, automotive mechatronics technicians, and one mechatronics technician for plant engineering. At 4:45 a.m., most of us were still a bit sleepy when we met in Heeslingen. But during the bus ride towards Hanover, and at the airport, the atmosphere quickly lifted – suddenly the whole group was full of energy, curiosity, and excitement for the two days ahead. Some of the trainees had never flown before – which made the trip even more thrilling.

Visiting the CLAAS Plant in Le Mans

Since I had never been to the CLAAS tractor factory in Le Mans myself, I was just as curious as our apprentices. Seeing how highly modern, customized tractors are built from individual parts across more than 70,000 m² was truly a highlight for me. Robots in action, state-of-the-art assembly technology, and the precision of the entire production process – the combination of engineering, passion, and teamwork really impressed me.

And our trainees felt the same: For many, it became clear only there how much detail and expertise goes into every single CLAAS tractor and what it means to produce around 10,000 machines per year at this level of quality.

Discovering Le Mans – From Old Town to Racetrack

The second day was all about the city of Le Mans itself. We explored the historic old town, visited the impressive Saint Julien Cathedral, and of course made a stop at the legendary race track known worldwide for the 24-hour race. For many, it was their first time in Le Mans – and you could feel the excitement.

Why events like this matter

For us in vocational training at the FRICKE Group, it’s about more than technical knowledge and practical skills – it’s about inspiring enthusiasm. We want to show that behind our brands and products stand true innovation, passion, and people with high standards.

The two-day trip achieved exactly that: a strong sense of identification with the CLAAS brand, a visible “we" feeling, new motivation for everyday work, and a great deal of pride in what we accomplish together.

An experience that stays with you

On November 20th, we flew back to Hanover full of impressions – and I’m sure this trip will stay in our memories for a long time. For our trainees, it was more than just a journey. It was an experience that connects and motivates.

For me personally, spending time with our trainees, seeing the exchange among them, and experiencing their enthusiasm and team spirit is always a highlight.

This is exactly why we organize these trips – and why I’m already looking forward to the next adventure together.