Plastics industry in Thuringia

The specialized expertise of training associations and vocational training institutions, as well as first-class universities, ensure your entrepreneurial success. Thuringia focuses on the industry-specific qualifications of its skilled workers.

Academic education

Around a third of students in Thuringia are enrolled in engineering degree programs. Five universities offer degree programs such as mechanical engineering and materials science/engineering, which are relevant to the industry.

Specialized courses/specializations include:

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Plastics Technology, TU Ilmenau
• Master's degree in Applied Plastics Engineering, Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences
• Bachelor in Engineering with a specialization in Plastics Technology, Duale Hochschule Eisenach-Gera

Initial and continuing education

Thuringia specifically promotes the education and training of students and apprentices. Specialists and managers from the plastics and automotive industries can pursue further education as product managers for plastics technology at Schmalkalden University of Applied Sciences.

The Thuringian Plastics Cluster PolymerMat eV. A consortium of companies, university and non-university R&D institutions, and service providers is strongly committed to promoting the training of young professionals in order to sustainably improve the training situation in the Thuringian plastics industry. The ongoing qualification and further training, as well as the retention of skilled workers in Thuringian companies, are also to be systematically ensured.

The cluster is also working successfully to consolidate and further expand the strong, dynamic development of the Thuringian plastics industry in recent years. Networking will further enhance the competitiveness and innovative strength of the Thuringian plastics industry. Thuringia is synonymous with innovation as a leading plastics region and is recognized both in Germany and internationally as a location for highly developed, sophisticated ideas for polymer products. The plastics processing industry is further strengthening its position among the four strongest sectors in Thuringia's manufacturing industry.

Application-oriented research and development of high-performance polymers is conducted in
Thuringia is a top priority. Benefit from renowned, business-oriented research institutions that will support you as innovation and cooperation partners.

TITK Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research eV.
The Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research (TITK) conducts both industry-oriented preliminary research and applied research in this field. It supports small and medium-sized enterprises in their innovation efforts with scientific expertise, industry knowledge, and the provision of modern technical infrastructure.

Research focus areas:

• Native Polymers and Chemical Research
• Textile and materials research
• Plastics research
• Functional polymer systems

East Thuringian Materials Testing Company
The East Thuringian Material Testing Company for Textiles and Plastics mbH, a subsidiary of TITK, offers services in the field of testing and problem simulation of plastics.

INNOVENT eV.
INNOVENT eV – Technology Development Jena has been conducting research in the fields of surface technology, magnetic-optical systems, and biomaterials for 20 years. Its 140 employees support Thuringian companies in industry-oriented, application-focused research and development.

TITV Textile Research Institute Thuringia - Vogtland eV.
The institute focuses on two areas of work – microsystems technology and its integration into textile and flexible structures, as well as the development of innovative materials based on new textile techniques and materials.

Research focus areas:

• Smart Textiles
• Surface functionalization
• Flexible materials

Thuringia offers excellent innovation and growth opportunities for companies in the plastics industry. Numerous company relocations in recent years prove this.

GRAFE Advanced Polymers GmbH
The family-owned company GRAFE has firmly established itself among the leading German manufacturers of masterbatches and compounds. The company employs approximately 200 people and exports to more than 30 countries. Its research department is one of the largest in the industry.

ContiTech AG
With approximately 1,300 employees, ContiTech AG, formed from the merger with Phoenix AG, is one of the largest employers in Thuringia. The production of hoses, conveyor belts, and sound and vibration isolation systems is the main focus at its plants in the Gotha/Waltershausen area.

Döllken Weimar GmbH
Döllken Weimar GmbH is a leading European manufacturer of skirting boards and floor profiles made from technical plastics. The company supplies its products to many countries on every continent. Its customers include wholesalers, retailers, and DIY stores specializing in flooring.

Weru Windows and Doors GmbH
Weru Windows and Doors GmbH Weru AG is the market leader in the production of PVC windows for residential construction. Around 550 employees manufacture high-quality PVC windows and doors at Triptis, the company's second production site alongside Rudersberg (Baden-Württemberg).