Aachen, August 29th, 2006

When the notebook goes on strike again
FEI WEG Aachen: Practical experience for IT students

The mobile phone hardly even had the chance to ring before Christian was already on site. Whether people have got problems with their computer software, cable connections, loud speakers or beamers: The 18-year-old and his 24 colleagues from the College for Design and Technology Aachen (BK GuT) are pulling the electronic and digital strings at the FEI World Equestrian Games 2006 (August 20th - September 3rd). "They are clever lads and they are top fit in their field," says Tobias Deurer, EDP Manager of the Aachen-Laurensberger Rennverein e.V. (ALRV). So, it is no wonder that they have more or less already got their technical diploma and leaving certificate as IT Assistants in their pockets.

It was Uwe Gehrke's idea to send the lads to the ALRV show grounds at the Aachen Soers before actually graduating. "It is important that the students gather as much practical experience as possible," explained the Director of the IT College at the BK GuT. "A large event such as the FEI World Equestrian Games will teach them how to manage with time pressure and stress and how to face every challenge." For instance being quickly on hand if the technology fails during the competitions, if one of the laptops of the 1,500 journalists crashes or the server is causing problems again. "And you don't have to motivate them at all," explains Gehrke. "They are enjoying it that much, that they even stay longer than they have to."

Their enthusiasm has already interested quite a few companies. Having participated at a World Championships event always looks good on your CV, and could lead to one or two of them finding a permanent job after their final exams. "I am on my way," Christain shouts over the phone. And runs to the next office with his laptop. Even World Championships don't work without the right technology.