Volunteers make an invaluable contribution to our community. They enable people to use their time and skills for the common good and, at the same time, gain personal experience that goes far beyond their professional lives. In today's blog post, we would like to offer a unique insight into the commitment of one of our volunteers. We interviewed Sebastian Stadler, a Sales Technician in After-Sales Service at GEBHARDT and a committed volunteer at the Helmstadt-Bargen Fire Department. Sebastian tells us about his voluntary work, how he balances his professional commitments with his involvement in the fire department, and what tips he has for anyone interested.
Please briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your role at GEBHARDT.
Stadler: My name is Sebastian Stadler; I am 39 years old and have been working at GEBHARDT as a sales technician in after-sales service since 2020. I'm mainly responsible for developing spare parts packages for our customers.
How long have you been with the volunteer fire department?
Stadler: I've been a firefighter since I was 12 years old and have been on duty with the Helmstadt-Bargen volunteer fire department since 2002 and on day shifts with the Sinsheim-Stadt volunteer fire department.
What motivated you to join the volunteer fire department?
Stadler: Like many children, I've always been excited about everything to do with those blue lights. When a youth fire department was founded in my hometown in 1996, I joined immediately. And I haven't regretted that decision to this day!
What are your tasks in the volunteer fire department?
Stadler: In my role in the emergency services, I serve as a group leader, leading a fire engine crew. Additionally, I instruct basic training courses for prospective firefighters and handle press and public relations work in my department.
Does GEBHARDT support your work in the volunteer fire department? If so, how?
Stadler: Since GEBHARDT allows us to take time off for operations and training, it is easy to balance work and volunteering.
Are there any special regulations or agreements with your employer when you are called out on an assignment?
Stadler: I always try to inform my colleagues I work directly with if I have to leave work for an assignment. I'm glad my colleagues understand this voluntary work, which is not always a given.
Are there any overlaps or similarities between teamwork in the fire department and at GEBHARDT?
Stadler: Volunteering in an aid organisation immensely benefits your professional life, regardless of your employer. On the one hand, it is the constructive and goal-oriented approach in a functioning team, and on the other hand, it also helps to keep a cool head even in stressful situations and make adequate decisions.
What advice would you give other people interested in volunteering with the fire department?
Stadler: I can only advise anyone to try out their local fire department, the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief or the German Red Cross. There is such a wide range of aid organisations that there is something suitable for everyone. Of course, volunteering requires a certain amount of time; however, the advantages are apparent as well: You can make a meaningful contribution to the common good and gain valuable personal development skills that will also benefit you outside of aid organisations. Additionally, you'll be part of a great community with diverse personalities that are closely connected even outside of operations.
What are your future plans for both the volunteer fire department and GEBHARDT?
Stadler: At GEBHARDT, I look forward to many exciting developments and new challenges, which we will tackle together and master. Regarding the fire department, I would like to contribute to ensuring that many young people find their way into voluntary work and stick with it.