Second edition of the successful challenge at the GrindingHub
After the successful premiere, the GRINDER OF THE YEAR (GOTY) competition is entering its second round. As part of the GrindingHub 2026 in Stuttgart, young grinding talents from the DACH region are once again called upon to prove their skills. Until February 23, 2026, trainees, skilled workers, and career changers from the grinding technology sector can register for the challenge and qualify for the live final at the GrindingHub.
The competition takes place under the auspices of the Association of German Machine Tool Manufacturers (VDW) and continues to send a strong signal against the shortage of skilled workers in 2026. UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS is committed as the main sponsor of the competition. The competition machine is provided by Walter Maschinenbau GmbH as part of the UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS group.
With its commitment as the main sponsor, UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS emphasizes the strategic importance of promoting young talent. "The future of grinding technology significantly depends on well-trained, motivated professionals," explains Stephan Nell, CEO of UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS. "The GRINDER OF THE YEAR brings young talents into contact with modern technology at an early stage and shows how versatile and demanding tool grinding is today."
Proven concept with theory and live final
The GOTY 2026 once again combines theory and practice. After a preliminary round with a theoretical examination, the best participants qualify for the final. The five finalists will showcase their practical skills live at the GrindingHub in Stuttgart in the design, programming, and grinding of a tool. "The GRINDER OF THE YEAR has already shown at its premiere how much potential lies in the next generation of grinding professionals," says Barbara Hannappel, managing director of KSKOMM, which is responsible for organizing and conducting the competition. "It is all the more important to reach as many young talents as possible again. Therefore, my appeal to companies and trainers: Actively share information about the competition and enable your young talent this special opportunity."
To optimally prepare the participants for the live challenge and to provide everyone with the same starting position, they will receive a two-day training session at WALTER in Tübingen in advance. During this time, the finalists will get to know the HELITRONIC MINI PLUS tool grinding machine, the HELITRONIC TOOL STUDIO grinding software, and the HELICHECK PLUS measuring machine.
Top technology for the GOTY
The HELITRONIC MINI PLUS tool grinding machine from WALTER with C.O.R.E. technology is particularly suitable for flexible production and re-sharpening of tools with small and medium diameters. Thanks to its modular design, the machine can be specifically adapted to different requirements. Various loading systems and efficiency options allow for a configuration of the machine that meets both current and future application cases. At the same time, the compact design ensures optimal use of space in production.
A central part of the training is working with the proven HELITRONIC TOOL STUDIO grinding software, which is designed for the current and future requirements of the tool industry. It enables the continuous design, programming, simulation, and production of rotationally symmetrical tools. The training is complemented by the HELICHECK PLUS, a high-precision measuring machine from WALTER, with which the finalists will also check the quality of their ground tools during the competition at the GrindingHub.
WALTER sees the competition as an important impetus for the industry: "Especially in times when qualified professionals have become a crucial competitive factor, it is important to promote young talent and show how future-oriented the industry and tool grinding as a high-tech sector is. The GRINDER OF THE YEAR convincingly combines training, practice, and technology," says Dr. Christoph Müller-Mederer, CEO of Walter Maschinenbau GmbH. "What makes WALTER special is the combination of its own grinding software, top-class tool grinding machines, and precise measurement technology. This allows us to represent the entire process and provide participants with a comprehensive insight into modern tool manufacturing."
Attractive prizes
In addition to the title GRINDER OF THE YEAR 2026, the five finalists can expect educational vouchers worth a total of 7,000 euros. Furthermore, all finalists benefit from exclusive additional services such as training at WALTER, networking opportunities, and free admission to the GrindingHub, including specialist lectures and workshops.
Who can participate?
Trainees, career changers, skilled workers, or aspiring professionals in the field of grinding in metalworking can participate in the GRINDER OF THE YEAR. Talents from the German, Austrian, and Swiss production environment of grinding technology are sought. This includes professions such as machining mechanic, precision mechanic, precision tool mechanic, specialist for metal technology (machining technology), practical specialist for metal technology, practical specialist for machining technology, machine and plant operator, stamping and forming mechanic, polymechanic, production mechanic, and tool mechanic.
"The GRINDER OF THE YEAR stands for equal opportunities, team spirit, and enthusiasm for precision," summarizes Barbara Hannappel, managing director of KSKOMM. "The competition shows how attractive and future-proof professions in grinding technology are and offers young talents a platform to develop both professionally and personally."
The application documents can be requested immediately at: Bewerbung@grinder-of-the-year.de
or simply register here: grinder-of-the-year.de/kontakt-fuer-bewerber/
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