Our L&P Automotive branch, Schukra Berndorf, is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that boosts productivity and promotes a great culture. The branch has a diverse mix of cultures, with employees from Austria, Germany, Turkey, Romania, Serbia, Bosnia, Armenia, Hungary, Ukraine, Croatia, Slovakia, China, and many more.

Also impressively, the manufacturing team is comprised of over 90% women, and 99% of the branch’s production employees are women. We spoke more with Frauke Radl, Human Resources Business Partner, about how the branch focuses on inclusion and empowers women.

You have employees from across the world. How do the diverse cultures enrich the branch?

Each employee contributes unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches, enhancing our team’s creativity and effectiveness. This exposure to different cultures improves cultural intelligence and fosters an environment of tolerance and respect. These elements create a strong foundation for a positive and productive work environment. We are rocking every challenge in our manufacturing department.

We also have many women employees at our branch. Based on our experience, women excel in dexterity and reliability. Part-time working mothers are particularly efficient, well-organized, and determined. Women bring unique skills and attention to detail to the workplace, essential for ensuring quality and precision in manual tasks.

Our workstations are designed to meet women’s ergonomic needs, providing increased comfort and significantly reducing the risk of injury.

Why is it important to get more women involved in manufacturing?

Women offer unique viewpoints and problem-solving approaches, which can lead to more innovative solutions and improved decision-making.

The manufacturing industry often faces skill shortages. Encouraging more women to enter the field can help fill these gaps and ensure a steady supply of skilled workers. Increasing the number of women in manufacturing provides role models for younger generations, inspiring more girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Last year, you held Girls’ Day, inviting young students to the branch to get an inside look at manufacturing careers. Where did this idea come from?

Girls’ Day, commonly called “Take Your Daughter to Work Day,” originated in the United States. In recent years, this concept has gained popularity in Europe. Girls’ Day aims to encourage girls to explore different careers and provide new insights into the world of work.

The branch will host Girls’ Day again in April 2025. What do you hope the students will gain from this experience?

Our goal is to show girls that we are a great employer and, with a shortage of skilled workers, encourage women to pursue technical careers.

Thank you to the team at Schukra Berndorf for empowering women and paving the way for future generations of women in manufacturing!