When Tobias Winther Bro joined BIRN in November 2020 after several years in the clothing industry, he had no clear idea where his career would take him. He started as an unskilled worker in the core shop and had no plans to pursue an education at that time. Five years later, he is a trained blacksmith in the Repair and Maintenance department – and has just been nominated for the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Award at SMV Holstebro.

Tobias now works as a repairman and blacksmith and is part of the team that ensures operation and maintenance across the foundry. He performs tasks in virtually all departments and works closely with production in areas where molten iron is handled.

Before Tobias joined BIRN, he worked in the clothing industry for several years but wanted more flexible working hours and a daily routine that was more compatible with family life. Therefore, he initially applied for an unskilled job while he considered his next steps.

After a year in the core shop at BIRN, his manager, who saw his potential, tapped him on the shoulder and asked if Tobias would like to take the education as a blacksmith.

- It wasn't something I had ever thought about myself. I had never seen myself as a blacksmith and, to be honest, didn't think I had the skills for it. But my manager believed in me and thought that if you want something, you can learn it.

The decision to accept the offer was a turning point in Tobias' career.

- To be honest, I didn't think I could do it. Many people doubted me, including those close to me. But that just motivated me even more. Today, I am both proud and grateful that someone saw potential in me that I couldn't see myself at the time.

Tobias Winter Bro, Blacksmith

A skills upgrade with support
For many people, starting an education as an adult and father of four is associated with uncertainty. For Tobias, the support from BIRN was therefore crucial.

He received a salary during his training, which made it possible for him to complete his apprenticeship without compromising his family's finances. At the same time, he experienced general understanding and flexibility in his everyday life.

The apprenticeship culminated in Tobias graduating as a blacksmith with a grade of 10 at the end of 2025 – an achievement he describes as his greatest personal victory.

A strong community
Although working in a foundry is physically demanding, Tobias feels that the culture at BIRN is characterised by community and mutual respect.

His colleagues play a crucial role in his well-being, and he describes the working environment as characterised by both warmth and humour – with room for diversity. At the same time, flexibility in his everyday life means a lot to him. Tobias lives in Holstebro and often cycles to work, and he feels that there is an understanding that work and family life must go hand in hand.

According to Tobias, BIRN has also taken significant steps in recent years in terms of strategy, values and direction.

- I can clearly feel that we are moving forward as a company. There are many passionate employees, and it is as if there has been an even clearer direction in the last few years, which only serves to increase motivation in our daily work.

Recognition outside BIRN
The development Tobias has undergone has not only been noticed internally. He has been nominated for the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Award by SMV Holstebro. The award ceremony will take place on 20 March, but it is still possible to vote for him .

Cast your vote for him below!

nominated for the 2026 apprentice of the year award

Tobias has been nominated for the Apprentice of the Year Award for his positive attitude, great job satisfaction and strong teamwork skills, among other things. He approaches all tasks with commitment and responsibility and is well-liked by both colleagues and management.

Vote for Tobias