In 2024, Karl Mayer’s commitment to customer support extended beyond top-tier products and services to encompass valuable specialist knowledge through its long-standing training programmes. Since 1960, the company’s in-house courses have facilitated entry into warp knitting and fostered business development.

Last year, the Karl Mayer academies in Germany, China, India, Japan, and Turkey conducted 104 courses, engaging 432 learners. The online training platform, available to customers in the Western Markets region since mid-2022, saw significant growth, boasting 564 active accounts from 50 countries by December 2024. These users ranged from company owners and managers to textile engineers, product developers, and machine operators.

“We are observing a shift from on-site training to digital alternatives. The online courses suffice for many professionals, eliminating the need for travel to Obertshausen,” noted Sophia Krinner, Product Owner Academy at Karl Mayer. The academy anticipates early registrations for the 2025 course programme, which opened in January. As a New Year’s special, a 25% discount is offered on the ‘Introduction to warp knitting’ e-learning course throughout February.

Approximately half of the previous year’s courses adhered to the standard programme, while numerous specialised trainings allowed customers to delve into specific topics. There was a notable increase in inquiries related to fishing net production, process optimisation, and product quality enhancement. These sessions were often conducted on-site during active production. Participants consistently praised the courses’ practical relevance.

“I have a much better view of the correlation between machine parts and product properties now. The basic mechanism of lapping and needle motion will guide me on common quality issues in my work,” shared Fang from Shawmut Corp., USA, regarding the ‘Practical introduction to warp knitting’ training.

“What I learned will help me develop new functionalities for the company I work for. I will use it every day. My new knowledge will help me to develop new patterns and realise new designs,” explained Valentina from American Specialized Textiles, Mexico, after attending the same course.

“An excellent time spent learning and expanding my knowledge, which I can now implement in my day-to-day job. The facilities and staff have been wonderful, and I look forward to returning to Karl Mayer to further my education with another course soon,” concluded Ashley from Baltex, United Kingdom, following the advanced course on warp knitting machines.

The academy’s e-learning offerings have expanded to include an introduction to warp knitting - available in five languages - and various free tutorials. In 2024, new topics such as ‘Energy Efficiency Solution’ and ‘Basics of Textile Analysis’ were added, attracting 117 trainees. The current year has already seen new additions, including a knowledge check for warp knitting introduced in January to assist customers in self-assessing their knowledge and selecting appropriate courses.

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