Our anniversary conference on 20 November at the Kongresshaus Zurich marked the highlight of our anniversary year: more than 700 members and guests celebrated with us a century of commitment, developments and joint successes. It was an event that allowed us to look back as well as step forward.

Nick Sohnemann kicked things off with an impressive message: «We are facing the greatest changes in human history.» His words set the tone for a day full of inspiration and reflection on responsibility and shaping the future.

The panel discussions also offered exciting perspectives. Under the chairmanship of Reto Brennwald, Member of the Council of States Erich Ettlin and Members of the National Council Paolo Pamini, Aline Trede and Kris Vietze discussed the influence of politics, regulation and artificial intelligence on the Swiss economy and our profession. In the panel discussion «New Work, New World – and everything is fine?» with Daniel Gentsch, Claudia Mattig, Stefan Pfister and Stefanie Specker, there was unanimous agreement: vocational training needs new approaches, because how we lead and work together shapes the job profile of tomorrow.

Courage, trust and the power of togetherness 
A particular highlight was the presentation by extreme mountaineer Dani Arnold. With powerful words, he showed that commitment begins with the individual, but only unfolds its true power in a team: the «I» becomes a «we» – and the «we» creates a strength that makes even the impossible possible.

The tributes to Stefanie Specker and Sergio Ceresola, which highlighted the responsibility and creative power of our profession and accompanied the change in the presidency from Peter Ritter to Denis Boivin, also provided moving moments. In short, it was a celebration that will linger in the memory – full of pride in the past and confidence in the future.

We look forward to everything that lies ahead. Together with you.