Porsche Academy Opens "Model Factory"

Porsche found a new way to expand its training portfolio by opening a Model Factory right at the Porsche plant in Leipzig, similar to the one at its headquarters. During the training at the ‘Model Factory’, participants are able to experience the implementation of lean work methods up close.

"To meet the large demand, we would now also like to show participants from a wide variety of sectors with practical simulations in Leipzig how work flows with lean processes from the automobile industry can be improved," explains Eberhard Weiblen, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Consulting, in a company’s statement.

The trainees are even given the opportunity to view the production of the new Porsche Panamera through a large glass pane in the Academy. The manufacturer of the sports limousine is based on the principles of virtually waste-free production, a new logistics concept that eliminates expensive storage areas.

"With lean and flexible production, Leipzig has developed into the second home of Porsche alongside Zuffenhausen," said Plant manager Siegfried Bulow, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Leizpig.

According to the German carmaker, companies can now claim public funds for training their employees in the "Model Factories" in Leipzig and Bietigheim-Bissingen. The Porsche Academy was recently certified in accordance with the Recognition and Approval for Further Education and Training (AZWV). That means 100 percent of the external qualification costs are covered by the Federal Employment Agency.