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Florian Schmidt is completing a dual study program in environmental engineering in Riedstadt
For the first time, the municipal utilities of Riedstadt, the town of Büchner, are offering a dual study program. Since October 1, 2025, Florian Schmidt has been working as a dual student at the municipal utilities company, studying civil engineering or environmental engineering in cooperation with Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.
The background to this is the increasing difficulty for municipalities in attracting qualified specialists for engineering positions. City utilities director Saskia Kirsch therefore decided to convert a vacant apprenticeship position into a dual study program. "He's learning the full spectrum of what the municipal utilities do. We're providing comprehensive insights into the areas of civil engineering and plant technology, and in return, we're gaining a highly qualified employee who will be extremely familiar with the company and is already providing us with fantastic support," said Kirsch.
The responsibilities of the Riedstadt municipal utilities include the operation and maintenance of approximately 120 kilometers of sewer lines with all associated special structures in five districts, as well as the operation of the central wastewater treatment plant. They also plan, construct, and monitor facilities, approve and maintain private wastewater systems, and provide advice to the public.
During the semester, the 21-year-old works one day a week at the Riedstadt town hall, where he first learns about administrative processes and then actively participates in the work. Currently, his tasks include preparing drainage fee notices. He spends the remaining days studying at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences. During semester breaks, Schmidt works full-time for the municipal utilities; he is given time off for exams and exam preparation.
After completing his vocational baccalaureate at the Sabine-Ball-School in Darmstadt, Florian Schmidt first completed the "hejmint" trial study program at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, which offered insights into various science and engineering degree programs. "When I saw the job posting for the dual study program at the Riedstadt municipal utilities, I knew immediately: This is exactly right for me," explains Schmidt. He particularly appreciates the close connection between theory and practice.
(RIEDSTADT – RED/PSR)
Featured image: City utilities director Saskia Kirsch and dual-study student Florian Schmidt. Photo: City of Riedstadt
