Böllhoff Education Campus – For a love of learning and future possibilities
E³: Education, encounters, enthusiasm. There could be no better motto for our new central training and lifelong learning complex spanning 1,600 square metres. At a time when many are taking a wait-and-see approach, Böllhoff is investing in people and learning spaces as part of our commitment to Bielefeld. After all, sustainability is only achieved through skills development.
Embracing the future since 1877: a story of bravery and success
From an ironmongers in 1877 to a global leader in 360° joining technology, Böllhoff's history is characterised by bold decisions. There was the early move into international markets or the technological breakthrough represented by the HELICOIL® thread insert, which was fitted to the lunar module in 1969 and enabled Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to become pioneers of space travel.
Today, Böllhoff operates from 44 sites across 26 countries. We have recently expanded our production base in places like Morocco and Turkey, and serve a wide range of sectors, from automotive and mechanical engineering to aviation. The new education campus is the logical next step in this approach to actively shaping the future.
For Wilhelm Alexander Böllhoff, this is not just a bonus, but a core strategy: stay bold, think long-term and build on regional strengths. The new campus, which was officially opened in September 2025, is the perfect embodiment of this ethos.
»"We believe in people and their courage to learn new things. The education campus is our promise to them. It is where we are shaping the future together, with both feet firmly on the ground and driven by a passion for successful connections."
The new education campus thus brings together vocational training, degree programmes and continuing professional development to nurture real-world talent at the cutting edge of technology. Under the guiding principle of E³ (education, encounters, enthusiasm), a place has been created where young people can flourish, skills can be developed, and business and academia can collaborate.
Frank Nientiedt, Head of the Education Campus and Employer Branding, sums up the concept with the slogan “E³ – Education, Encounters, Enthusiasm”:
»"Education is not a static state, but a dynamic process. Meeting others fosters networking and generates ideas, while enthusiasm is the spark that turns knowledge into action."
Learning to embrace responsibility
Particularly worthy of mention is the apprentice company, which is due to be established in 2026. As part of this setup, young people will plan, make and sell products all on their own. Marketing, sales, procurement, manufacturing, logistics and quality assurance may all be on a small scale, yet they carry real responsibility. In this way, entrepreneurial thinking is not merely taught, but put into practice. There are currently 93 apprentices being prepared for real-world careers at Böllhoff, spread across 17 different vocational role
Training that makes a difference
The campus also serves as a training centre for staff and external specialists, such as on lean management. In collaboration with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), certificate courses are offered in various subjects, including artificial intelligence. In addition, practical modules on CNC technology, pneumatics, hydraulics, drive technology and welding are available.
Universities at the heart of it all
Theory meets practice: the Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSBI) has already moved parts of the "Business Innovation & Technology" (BIT) Master's programme to the campus, featuring real-life case studies, direct access to technology and a short feedback loop. Students thus gain first-hand experience of how theory is put into practice, whilst the company benefits from access to young talent and the latest research.
OWL connects: training for the region
Böllhoff has long since moved beyond training staff solely for its own purposes. Around 20 partner companies from the OWL region benefit from the campus, as do numerous schools through partnerships, job application training and insights into modern industrial careers. Anyone who has experienced what modern machining involves, or just how demanding mechatronics is, will see technical career paths in a whole new light.
A culture of learning that builds connections
Knowledge is not merely consumed here, but shaped. Coaches rather than lecturers in the traditional sense, teams rather than lone wolves, a focus on solutions rather than problems. And yes – learning can be full of surprises and can put the focus on human interaction: from short, interactive workshops to yoga sessions or morning 'rave hours'. What matters is the effect: people connect with topics, tools and one another.
Sustainability from construction to operation
The campus combines cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability through the use of heat pumps, solar panels, a green roof and reused materials from the previous building. This is in line with the company's overall strategy of conserving energy, managing supply chains responsibly and strengthening partnerships.
The future begins with learning
The education campus demonstrates how companies can shape change today: with courage, technology and a genuine connection with people. What has been created here is more than just a building. It is an invitation to study, to come together and to indulge a passion for learning – for people, businesses and OWL.