Jakob is "Germany's best road builder 2025"
When Jakob began his training as a road builder in the Würzburg/Aschaffenburg area in September 2022, he had no idea where this path would lead him. Today, he holds the title of "Germany's Best Road Builder 2025" and is in the middle of his dual studies in civil engineering.
His interest in the construction industry began early on: his grandfather was a master bricklayer and his uncle studied the same course that Jakob is studying today. A visit to a school trade fair finally brought him to STRABAG.
Apprenticeship meets study
Jakob's start at STRABAG was also the first step in his dual study program. In the first year, he learned the basics of road construction at vocational school, then completed the inter-company training in Nuremberg and was active on construction sites early on.
For him, the time in Nuremberg meant being away from home for longer. At the same time, he got to know many other trainees there, which led to valuable friendships. "Today, we follow similar paths and can talk about everything," he says.
What particularly sets Jakob apart is his thirst for knowledge. On every construction site, he wanted to understand exactly why certain processes are the way they are.
Large construction sites, large learning curves
His personal highlights include projects such as the resurfacing of the B469 near Niedernberg and the construction work on the A3. There he experienced at first hand how complex and precise road construction has to be. He was particularly enthusiastic about surveying and setting out. "You really have to think for yourself," he says of his experiences.
The highlight of his career so far: being named Germany's best road builder in 2025. The Chamber of Industry and Commerce honored him for the best final exam. His exam included precise paving work with various materials: granite block paving, mosaic paving, concrete slabs, deep kerbs and more. Criteria such as evenness, precision and accuracy of fit are crucial.
Motivation, support and team spirit
Jakob emphasizes how valuable the support from the STRABAG team was for him. The apprenticeship coordinators were always on hand to give him advice, and friendships developed among the apprentices, which also made it easier to prepare for the final exam together and strengthened the team spirit. He was also particularly motivated by the opportunity to apply what he had learned in theory directly on the construction site.
Jakob appreciates the close connection between theory and practice in his day-to-day work. Road construction gives him the feeling of creating something lasting, while his studies give him a better understanding of the technical background. In his current practical phase in the office, he is also gaining valuable insights into invoicing and construction management - an important step on the way to his desired career goal.
Future goals and valuable tips
His goal is clear: he wants to become a site manager, successfully complete his studies and perhaps add a Master's degree at some point.
Jakob has a simple but important piece of advice for future apprentices: