Georg F. W. Schaeffler who is also participating in the delegation trip emphasized in his speech: "We are delighted that you have selected our plant in Irapuato for your visit. The Schaeffler locations in Mexico are an important base for supplying our customers in Central and North America. With our training center "Schaeffler Academy" in Mexico, in which our trainees and students undergo integrated training according to the German model, we are setting setting high standards in the qualification of our employees in the region."
The plant tour took Foreign Minister Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and the members of the delegation through the manufacturing and training areas. Dr. Steinmeier used the visit to talk with trainees, students and trainers and to ask them about their experiences. To show their appreciation, the trainees presented him with a chess set, which they had designed and made themselves.
Like all Schaeffler training centers worldwide, Schaeffler Mexico has implemented the successful German integrated training system because employees with first-class qualifications are a decisive factor in global competition. Currently, 53 trainees and 20 engineering students are completing integrated training or integrated degree programs in the Schaeffler Academy. Training is given for careers as industrial, tool and machining mechanics. Up to now, around 160 young people have completed their training or degree at the Schaeffler Academy. All graduates have been taken on so far.
The Schaeffler plant in Irapuato supplies customers from the automotive industry, industrial companies and suppliers in Mexico and North America with conventional rolling bearings as well as products for engine systems and chassis applications. True to Schaeffler's motto "In the region, for the region" and with the objective of manufacturing in proximity to customers, Schaeffler opened its manufacturing location in Irapuato in 2008. Around 800 employees are currently employed at the location.
Schaeffler has been active in Mexico since 1970. The first plant set up in Puebla in the mid 1970s manufactures products for the LuK brand. A location was subsequently founded in Mexico City in 1981. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket also became established here in 1998. In total, Schaeffler has around 2,200 employees in Mexico.