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From classroom to reality: How GROW is changing everyday work

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Have you ever walked away from a training programme feeling inspired, only to wonder how those lessons will hold up in the real world? The GROW participants asked themselves the same question. Some months have passed since the conclusion of the programme and we asked two participants Christoph and Guilherme how GROW has impacted on their careers and personal lives.

Coordinating teams: Christoph’s journey

“Creating an environment where everyone can contribute ideas and drive the project forward is key,” says Christoph Lueken, the newly appointed Corporate IT team leader for the Analytics team at KAEFER’s headquarters in Germany. For him, the GROW programme has fundamentally changed his approach to coordinating teams. “Before GROW, I thought leading a team was about making sure tasks got done. But I’ve learnt that it’s really about understanding people – listening to their ideas, recognising their strengths and creating a space where everyone feels encouraged to contribute.”

Christoph applied these lessons during the multi-country roll-out of KAEFER’s Analytics Platform. “At first, I thought that the complexity of the project required a top-down approach. But GROW taught me the value of collaboration,” he explains. “By actively involving local teams and leveraging their insights, we were able to tailor the platform to regional needs. It wasn’t about directing but working together as partners in success.”

Starting his new role in January, Christoph is excited to bring the collaborative mindset and leadership skills he developed through GROW to his team. “The programme has given me tools and insights that I’m eager to apply as we face new challenges and opportunities together.”

Building lifelong skills: Guilherme’s story

For Guilherme Medina, Contract Manager at RIP Servicos Industriais in Brazil, GROW offered a wide range of learning opportunities. “GROW is like a supermarket of skills. You can pick and choose what is most relevant to your job,” he says with a smile. “For me, communication styles and lateral leadership stood out. These skills have been incredibly useful in my role as an internal consultant, especially when helping different departments implement more efficient methods such as LEAN.”

But Guilherme didn’t just gain professional skills – GROW also encouraged deep personal reflection. “The coaching sessions were transformative. They helped me understand my personal aspirations and strengths, which ultimately led to a career change within KAEFER,” he says. “I moved to a new role where I believe I can add more value, both to the company and to myself. GROW has shown me that personal growth is an ongoing process and depends on your own involvement.”

Taking action and driving change is key. The programme’s balance between structured learning and self-directed growth enabled Guilherme to apply new methods effectively. “Accountability partners and coaches played a crucial role in keeping us on track and helping us integrate these lessons into our daily work,” he adds.

A lasting impact

As these stories illustrate, GROW is about more than professional development. It’s about building a culture of collaboration, trust and shared growth across KAEFER’s global network. By embracing new ways of thinking, participants are shaping the future of their teams and projects. “The beauty of GROW is that it’s what you make of it,” concludes Guilherme. “Your growth depends on your own involvement – taking action, driving change and creating opportunities for yourself and others.”

With its emphasis on real-world application and personal transformation, GROW empowers KAEFER employees worldwide to thrive in their roles and contribute to a stronger, more connected company. Stay tuned for more GROW real-life stories.

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