The VAHLE apprentices were allowed to design the photo backdrop for the #kamenlove photo contest entirely on their own – from the initial idea to the finished setup.
In spring 2025, VAHLE was asked by KIG - the Kamen-Initiative für Gewerbeentwicklung e.V. - to design the photo backdrop for the Winter World photo competition. After internal coordination, this resulted in an exciting trainee project: our technical product designer trainees took on the complete planning and realisation of the backdrop - from the initial sketches to the selection of materials and the final construction.
The aim was not only to create a creative photo backdrop, but also to promote teamwork, initiative and technical expertise. On this page, we provide insights into the individual project phases, show challenges and solutions and let the trainees themselves have their say.
Selin Gökcek, Jannes Krüger, Tania Beyer and Fabian Götte (from left to right)
The #kamenliebe project
How was the photo backdrop actually created?
This year, we, the technical product design trainees, had the chance to develop the photo backdrop for the #kamenliebe photo competition ourselves.
Not everything always went according to plan, but that's exactly what made us even stronger as a team. Curious about how we overcame challenges and realised our own ideas? We have put together a timeline for you.
Accompany us on our journey
The creation of the backdrop
March
The enquiry
In March, the Kamen-Initiative für Gewerbeentwicklung e.V. VAHLE asked if we would like to build the photo backdrop for the Winter World photo competition. After a little thought and a few discussions with our trainer and the training manager, we realised that this was exactly the right project for us trainees!
April
First ideas & sketches
We sat down together and created initial sketches - from lettering and shapes to possible VAHLE products that we could incorporate. A plot helped us to better understand the proportions. The visit to the VAHLE demo centre was particularly exciting, where we were able to try out a lighting concept using a room divider with VAHLE products.
May
Light, 3D & technology
Things got technical in May: we designed 3D models for brackets and angles, printed the first parts and tested different variants. Lighting was also a big issue - a light tube was to light up the letters. The planning became more concrete and we ordered materials and worked through the mounting options.
June
Cutting & preparation
The profiles were delivered and we started cutting the letter parts straight away. This taught us how important precise planning is - because we had to reorder. But that's all part of it! Then all the parts were labelled and sorted - ready for assembly.
July
Frame construction & precision work
Now it was time for the construction: The frame made of MiniTec profiles was assembled, further 3D printed parts were manufactured and cleaned. We ordered and tested a light tube - unfortunately, it didn't work as we had imagined. But that didn't stop us.
August
Change of plan & creative solutions
As the light tube could not be installed as planned, we had to rethink things: a Plexiglas disc with VAHLE lettering was used instead. Even though our 3D printer broke down in the meantime, we continued with a lot of team spirit and printed new angles. The assembly was challenging, but we found solutions together.
September
Mounting in the frame
In September, the time had finally come: the assembly of the individual letters in the frame could begin. The preparatory work paid off - we had already carefully assembled the letters in advance. This made assembly in the frame much quicker and easier for us.
October
The finishing touches
In October, the time had finally come: the complete lettering was installed and decorated with the matching VAHLE branding. After a lot of planning, cutting and assembly, we were proud to say: "We're done!" A perfect conclusion to our project.
November
Together in the town hall
In November, we were able to take part in the presentation of the Kamener Winterwelt programme at the town hall together with the KIG, our trainer and the training manager. It was an exciting moment where we were able to present our project in an official setting.
December
The photo contest is starting
At the end of November, our lettering set off on a big journey: the finished letters were carefully loaded and prepared for transport. On our Instagram account @vahleazubis, you could follow along live and get exclusive behind-the-scenes insights.
Now the time has come: the lettering is shining bright at the Kamener Winterwelt – just in time for the start of our photo contest. Grab your smartphone, take a creative photo with the VAHLE lettering, and show us your #KamenLiebe!
For our trainees, a practical project like this is simply a great opportunity to really try out what they have learnt. Even if the whole thing was a little outside our normal working day, we were able to incorporate real VAHLE products and create something special together. What makes us particularly proud is that our technical product designer trainees managed the project as a team from start to finish, found creative solutions and overcame the odd challenge - just as it sometimes happens in professional life. We are really proud of our trainees!
Join the team
Would you like to be involved in exciting projects like this right from the start?
At VAHLE, you can not only watch, but also help shape things, contribute your own ideas and make a difference together as a team.
Become part of our trainee team and start your training with us!
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