Germany
From apprenticeship to friendship
At BASF in Ludwigshafen, connections are at the heart of what we do every day. Be it couples, friends or families – our employees show how deep these connections can be. The story of Alena Wolf and Tamara Rettig is one example of how teamwork can develop into true friendship.
How it all began
“I completed my apprenticeship as an industrial clerk at BASF. One of my practical placements was in the Apprenticeship Marketing department, where I was later taken on permanently,” says Alena. That is where she met Tamara. “We hit it off straight away – she was friendly, open and just on the same wavelength,” remembers Tamara. What started out as a normal relationship between coworkers quickly turned into a genuine friendship.
“We have a very similar sense of humor – we just can’t stop laughing when we’re together.”
More than just colleagues
Both work in Apprenticeship Marketing:
Alena manages the social media channels, while Tamara is responsible for the career guidance internship program.
But the real highlight of their day-to-day work?
“We laugh every day – that makes the job even better,” they both agree.
Even once their work is done, they love to spend time together:
Wine festivals, concerts, events and even vacations. “Our first big trip was to the Adele concert in Munich – that is when our friendship really took off,” says Tamara.
Why BASF means more to us
“To start with, it was all quite casual – we liked each other and found each other funny. But over time, we shared so many experiences and successes together,” they both say.
For them, one thing is certain:
It is possible to make true friends at work.
What do they value about BASF?
“Connection. Satisfaction. Development. And yes – the money is good too,” they say with a smile. “But above all: It’s fun. Because we enjoy our work – and because we have each other.”
BASF connects – and brings people together
Our company has developed into a global family, bound together by strong relationships. BASF connects not just chemicals, but people. Alena and Tamara show what this connection looks like in everyday life.
In the full interview, Alena and Tamara talk about how they met via the apprenticeship scheme and what connects them both at work and beyond.
Want to know more?
Find out more about apprenticeships, dual study programs and career opportunities at BASF.
