Experience technology up close - the tüftelCamp at WIKA
A tüftelCamp took place at WIKA Schweiz AG in Hitzkirch from April 22 to 25, 2025. Young people between the ages of nine and 16 spent a week developing autonomous rescue vehicles and gaining exciting insights into the technical world of work at WIKA.
The origin lies in the canton of Obwalden: The tüftelPark Pilatus association was founded here in 2016 in response to the shortage of skilled workers in the technical field. The aim was to promote the “inventive, manual and creative talents” of children and young people throughout the canton. The tüftelPark Rigi in Weggis followed in 2023 as a mobile extension covering the cantons of Lucerne and Schwyz.
The association relies on the tried-and-tested tüftelCamps: children and young people spend a week working on a specific project in a technical company - in the case of WIKA, on an autonomous rescue vehicle. "The demand for qualified specialists in technical professions is high. That's why we focus on early, practical support," explains Cedrik Brunner, program manager of the tüftelPark. Its business and program management is carried out on behalf of 2point egineering GmbH.
Experience technology through play
At the camp, the girls and boys are supported by apprentices and specialists from the partner company. According to Brunner, programming and working with modern tools such as 3D printers and laser cutters are particularly popular. But AI applications such as ChatGPT are also very popular: "These technologies help young people to quickly implement, test and improve their own ideas. As they are easy to use, the inhibition threshold is lowered and excessive demands are avoided - a motivating learning process with an AHA effect".
The participants work in teams, which promotes teamwork and creativity. At the end of the tinkering week, the completed projects are proudly presented. The feedback is always very positive: the young people are enthusiastic, many of them come back or recommend the camps to others.
Companies benefit
The impetus for the collaboration with the tüftelPark came via WIKA's existing network: WIKA Managing Director Andreas Kolb heard about the tüftelCamps from Adrian Steiner, CEO of Thermoplan AG - where an earlier camp was held. His interest was quickly aroused. “The tüftelCamp is a great opportunity to discover talent, generate enthusiasm - and maybe even get to know future apprentices,” says Kolb.
Positive effect on the job market
The effect is lasting: many young people sign up for taster apprenticeships after the camp, and some later start their apprenticeship in the same company. A certificate of participation in the tüftelCamp supports them along the way. Andreas Kolb is convinced that the camps help to counteract the shortage of skilled workers in the long term. “Every company that offers technical professions can benefit from getting involved in this area.”
Dario Jurt
Project Manager Business Development
Phone +41 41 367 44 00
