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When an industrial group has its training programme certified: HOERBIGER and the TU Wien Academy

On May 20, 2026, the certification process for HOERBIGER’s Reciprocating Compressor Training Program was successfully completed with the official presentation of the certificate.

HOERBIGER Zertifikatsübergabe

© Martin Nußbaum

Die feierliche Übergabe des Qualitätssiegels in der Argentinierstraße markiert einen Fall, der weit über das einzelne Unternehmen hinausweist – und zeigt, was es bedeutet, ein firmeninternes Trainingsprogramm von einer technischen Universität prüfen zu lassen.

HOERBIGER has been offering customer training in the field of reciprocating compressors for decades. About five years ago, these training courses were consolidated into a standalone product: the Industry Qualification Program, The program offers standardised training courses at various levels, either online or at the group’s training centres around the world. With the recent certification of the Reciprocating Compressor Training Program by the TU Wien Academy, this program has reached a new level—one that is increasingly in demand in the market.

Why a company seeks validation from a university

According to Christian Prinz, Managing Director of HOERBIGER Wien GmbH, the impetus came from the customer base. In many countries, particularly in the Anglo-Saxon world, proven continuing education is a prerequisite for skilled workers to maintain their professional status. Those who complete a certified program simultaneously earn recognized continuing education credentials.

For HOERBIGER, there was an additional intrinsic motivation: to further professionalize its own offerings. “What it takes to truly offer the same standard globally,” says Prinz. Whether the training center is in Vienna, the Far East, or the U.S., the quality should be identical everywhere. 
 

What the certification actually means

HOERBIGER Zertifikatsübergabe

© Martin Nußbaum

Prinz doesn’t shy away from acknowledging that such a process is demanding: “Our colleagues really had to work hard.” But the tone was crucial—no finger-wagging, just working together toward the goal. Challenging, but collaborative. The external assessors highlighted exactly the points that help the company take the next step.

A Reputational Factor with Market Impact

Why TU Wien? In addition to its proximity, Prinz cites its international reputation above all: TU Wien is a well-known name in the piston compressor industry, and customers can quickly look up who issues the certificate. For whom is it particularly worthwhile? “Especially for companies that are export-oriented,” says Prinz, “those that extend a bit beyond the DACH region.”

The impact of the certification is already evident. Some customers are now incorporating the training program into their own corporate standards portfolio. According to Prinz, such certifications hold particular significance, especially in markets in the Middle East and the Far East.
 

Who the certification is intended for

[Translate to English:] HOERBIGER Zertifikatsübergabe

© Martin Nußbaum

The program is part of the Corporate Solutions (CS) division of the TU Wien Academy.  As part of the certification process, training or qualification programs are evaluated through a structured, multi-stage procedure. The certification is valid for five years and is renewable. Upon successful completion, the “Certified by TU Wien Academy for Continuing Education” logo may be used as part of the program. This is intended to guarantee quality internally and make it visible externally to customers and in international markets.

Interested in certification?

Companies wishing to have their own training program certified or to learn more about the process should contact: 

tba.