Excellent training as a freight forwarding and logistics services clerk

Our colleague Susanne Burgi is a highly qualified specialist in freight forwarding and logistics services. She began her training at Noerpel in 2018, completing her shortened apprenticeship in 2020 with a commendation on her certificate. Her certificate is full of top marks, with nothing but ‘very good’ entries. We congratulate Ms Burgi on her outstanding results and are proud that she will be joining the International Transport department.

We spoke with Susanne Burgi about her apprenticeship experience at Noerpel.

Why did you decide to train as a freight forwarding and logistics services specialist at Noerpel?

'I was looking for a new professional direction. Better late than never! While attending the Ulm Education Fair, I spontaneously attended a Noerpel presentation about the apprenticeship programme. The role appealed to me immediately, and I submitted my application shortly afterwards.

In hindsight, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The forwarding and logistics industry offers a wide range of career paths and development opportunities. Since goods always need to be transported from A to B, it is also a future-proof profession. The opportunity was made even more attractive by the fact that I would be working for a long-established family-owned company.

What were the key takeaways from your apprenticeship?

It was a varied and rewarding experience, providing valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of a logistics provider. This experience is now benefiting me in my work in transport planning. It also showed me that it's never too late to change career direction.

What did you particularly appreciate about Noerpel as an apprentice?

Before the programme began, all trainees were invited to social activities such as bowling, which helped us to get to know one another in a relaxed environment. During the programme, I had the opportunity to work in a wide range of departments, which helped me to identify where my strengths lay within the company. From day one, I was actively involved in day-to-day operations. Thanks to my strong performance at vocational school and in the workplace, I was able to complete my apprenticeship in just two years.

The trainers and colleagues always made time to help, no matter how busy things became. When vocational school lessons were suspended due to the Coronavirus pandemic shortly before the final examinations, we were given time to catch up on coursework. In addition, our trainers provided dedicated exam preparation sessions.

What advice would you give to apprentices starting their first year in September?

Expect an exciting and rewarding experience, and seize every opportunity. It is well worth it.

How would you sum up your apprenticeship in one sentence?

'The journey is the destination.' That sums it up perfectly.

What are you most excited about in your future role in the International Transport department at Noerpel?

No two days are ever the same. When I sit down at my desk in the morning, I never know exactly what challenges or opportunities the day will bring. I work closely with customers and transport partners, responding flexibly to changing situations and making use of my language skills. It's this variety that makes the role so enjoyable.

We look forward to continuing to work with you, and we wish you every success and enjoyment in your future endeavours. Thank you very much for your time.

Apprenticeship at Noerpel in Ulm – at a glance: