Salzgitter showcases steel and technology - and sunflowers

They are the centerpiece of IdeenExpo - the many innovative exhibits that inspire interaction and present us with tangible proof that science and technology can be fun. Olaf Lies, Lower Saxony's Minister of Economic Affairs, was given a sneak preview of Germany's unique youth event for career orientation - surrounded by a selection of exciting exhibits from major exhibitors, he was able to get a taste of the IdeenExpo beforehand.

"Winning young people's enthusiasm for the MINT professions in order to raise the next generation of specialists employees - this is exactly the right approach for counteracting demographic change. At IdeenExpo we have the opportunity of awakening the interest of young people not just for one day but with a view to winning them over for a profession in these areas", said Lies. Salzgitter AG's exhibit was a case for flower lovers that needed a great deal of skill and finger dexterity. Larissa Ambrose, Christian Denecke and Martin Schmiechen, all industrial technicians in the making, used metal to craft dazzling sunflowers. Minister Lies was presented with one on the spot.

"IdeenExpo is an excellent communication platform for inspiring children and young people for technology and natural sciences by letting them have a go themselves and for presenting steel to them as a fascinating material with exciting application potential", said Michael Kieckbusch, Salzgitter AG's Chief Personnel Officer. He added that IdeenExpo ideally compliments and reinforces the company's long-standing activities to awaken the interest of school children for careers in natural sciences and technology." IdeenExpo will be opening its doors from 4 to 12 July for the fifth time. All in all, more than 600 exhibits from around 230 exhibitors and some 650 workshops await visitors in Halls 7, 8 and 9, as well as in the outdoor area.

As in the years before, entrance to IdeenExpo with its entire offering and live concerts is free. In addition, the transport costs of school children from the area of greater Hanover traveling by public transport have also been assumed. Other school children coming from all over Germany will be subsidized in an amount of three euros per person. The hotline +49 (0)511-9823732 is now open for school classes to register for workshops, the HochschulCamp or the KinderUni.

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