Employee Swap Program

In 2023, we launched our Employee Swap Program in partnership with international painting contractors Heinrich Schmid and Bell Group. The initiative sends painters overseas to further their professional development through first-hand learning with a host company.

We welcomed a team of two painters from Heinrich Schmid in October 2023. They spent time across several of our branches, learning new techniques and disciplines from our operations teams. Verena finished up her time with us in March, while Stephanie eager to spend more time in Australia, extended her trip and is currently working with our Cairns team.

Heinrich Schmid painters Verena and Stephanie at our Brisbane office

We are thrilled to be sending one of our own to Germany to learn from Heinrich Schmid. 23-year-old Ryan Berry from Wide Bay will be the inaugural participant heading abroad from Higgins. Senior HR Manager QLD/NSW/ACT Glenn Minett saw Ryan off at Brisbane International Airport and picked his brain on his upcoming journey and expectations for the trip.

Ryan Berry at Brisbane International Airport

How did you first become aware of the Employee Swap Program?
"My Branch Manager, Brett Fulcher, passed on information about the program and mentioned that he would support me if it was something I chose to pursue. At first, the idea of it all was daunting, but I eventually applied and I am glad I did."

How did you feel when you found out you had been accepted?
"I was excited to hear the news because it would be my first trip overseas and it showed that Higgins had faith in me. I had the opportunity to work with Stephanie from Heinrich Schmid, and she was very enthusiastic about it. I was surprised by how eager the Heinrich Schmid team was to host someone from Higgins - that was reassuring."

What have you done to prepare yourself for the exchange program?
"The first thing I did was download Duolingo to work on some basic German phrases. After that, I began researching German cultural practices and information about the areas I'll be staying in. I've put together a list of things to do and see outside of work, and I'm sure the Heinrich Schmid team will have plenty to show me over there as well."

Are there any techniques or disciplines you're excited to learn and develop in your time abroad?
"Drywalling and plastering are more common in Germany, and I believe that learning new skills like that could be beneficial. Simply put, I've been given a great opportunity, and I'm looking forward to making the most of it."

What are your expectations for your first site in Germany?
"Working with a new bunch of people is exciting to me. I'm keen to show off the skills that Higgins has taught me and hopefully pick up a few new techniques that I can share with our team once I'm back in Australia."

We want to express our gratitude to Heinrich Schmid for their generosity and hope Ryan is the first of many employees we send abroad as part of this program.