Between tradition and transformation: Impulses from the 7th ERLUS Forum in Rosenheim

A strong start: Small and medium-sized businesses as a motor

Guido Hörer, Sales Manager for Roof Ceramics at ERLUS AG, emphasized the central role of medium-sized companies in Germany at the opening: “Medium-sized companies are the engine of success in our country.” Around 300 carpenters, sales representatives, dealers and scientists from all over Germany, Austria, Switzerland and even Poland traveled to Rosenheim for the 7th ERLUS Forum. “The high number of participants speaks for the industry,” said Prof. Heinrich Köster, President of Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences, in his opening speech: ”We don't just teach theory, we actively support sustainable timber construction and ensure succession in the SME sector.”

Impetus for trade and training

In two lecture halls, the participants followed the presentations of the five selected speakers. “We carpenters always get valuable input here,” said one satisfied participant. A colleague added: “The mix of presentations was very well coordinated, the speakers humorous and competent.” Many tradespeople have already attended the ERLUS Forum several times.

Guild as a community of solidarity

In his speech, head master Thomas Pichler from the Rosenheim carpenters' guild called for greater social recognition of the skilled trades: “We need to ensure that skilled tradespeople enjoy the same respect as academics.” He criticized the exaggerated portrayal of the construction crisis and pleaded for the expansion of timber construction as a sustainable construction method.

Three dream days for entrepreneurs

Strategy consultant Wolf Hirschmann encouraged entrepreneurs to consciously take time to think. His “Dream Days” concept involves spending three days thinking specifically about the past, present and future of your own business: “If you want to be confident, you have to have confidence!” A blank sheet of paper served as a symbol of mental freedom and new beginnings.

Research for the timber construction of the future

Building physics engineer Adrian Blödt, co-developer of the new timber construction guidelines, was able to score points with practical research results. He explained how fire protection in timber buildings can be significantly improved through scientific findings: “Wood burns predictably!” This allays many fears and creates confidence in the building material of the future.

Digitalization you can touch: AI in the skilled trades

Master carpenter Udo Herrmann showed how artificial intelligence can be used in a very practical way in craft businesses. Using his AI avatar “Linda”, he demonstrated how processes can be streamlined and customer communication improved. “The craftsman's folder is a simple but effective tool that helps to ensure quality and not forget any details.”

“Politicians make decisions for others”

Wolfgang Bosbach, former member of the Bundestag, lawyer and grandson of a roofer, called for a change in mentality in politics and society: “Germany needs people from real life at the top, not just professional politicians.” With humorous charm and plain language, he spoke out in favor of more trust, education and voluntary work.

Passion, courage and one's own ego

Extreme climber Thomas Huber, known from the “Huberbuam”, provided an emotional highlight. With impressive pictures and stories from the world of climbing, he spoke about failure and the courage to succeed: “The mountain tells you how far you can go.” His central message: success requires passion, empathy and, above all, the willingness to overcome one's own ego.

Exchange promotes progress

The 7th ERLUS Forum was more than just a specialist conference - it was a meeting place for visions, impulses and encounters. The mixture of practical presentations, socio-political debates and technological innovations showed how much potential there is in combining tradition and the future.