Operatives und Executives share their experiences in the program
When Gabriella Austvika talks about the reasons that prompted her to move from Latvia to Germany, horses play a major role. But there was one thing in particular that stood out for her: “I was looking for something that would allow me to further my education in equestrian management. I came across the Equestrian Stable Management Program, which also gave me a great opportunity to come to Germany for an exclusive internship.” The unique certificate program is organized by CHIO Aachen CAMPUS and the RWTH International Academy, with 17 participants from eleven nations currently studying in the first year.
Gabriella finds the combination of theory and practice particularly exciting, which she has not yet found in any other training program. “You either go to university and miss out on the practical experience or you do an apprenticeship that often lacks the business part. But the ESM program combines both,” explains the 21-year-old. The field of human resources, which in her eyes is also important in the equestrian world, has interested her the most so far. “A good working atmosphere and a pleasant environment are elementary factors in stressful everyday life,” she is convinced.
Gabriella has now completed the theoretical part, which is taught in interactive online courses, and is doing an internship at Holger Hetzel’s stables. Among other things, she is working with horses, going to shows and helping to organize auctions. She can also observe the work of stable manager Christine Dorenkamp and learn a lot in the process. “All in all, the network that we can build up in the program is very valuable for the future and our further careers.”
Part-time also possible
While Gabriella is one of the participants in the Operative Track, which comprises an intense course of study including a six-month internship at one of the renowned partner stables, Ann Verschoore is one of the students in the Executive Track which is organized a spart-time studies. She already works as a stable manager for Henrik von Eckermann, among others, but wanted to take her knowledge to the next level.
“The program offers me significantly more theoretical knowledge for practical work in my everyday life. The modules on finance and human resources are particularly helpful,” says the 36-year-old. At the end of the Equestrian Stable Management course, she receives a certificate that attests to her one year of theoretical training in addition to her previous practical work experience.
“It’s very rewarding”
Klara Rücker has found her place in a wonderful and idyllic setting. The ESM participant from Thailand is completing her internship with Matthias Alexander Rath at the Schafhof. She is working in various areas there. “I like the fact that I’m gaining insights into the stable and accounting. The latter in particular is a very important part and I’m grateful that I’m able to experience this,” says Klara. The certificate program offers a lot of information and in her eyes also requires good time management and self-study. “But it’s very rewarding, because the knowledge is very useful.”
It’s not hard to see that she feels comfortable at the stables located in Kronberg im Taunus. Among all the flowers, fountains and, of course, horses, Klara is in her element. “The Schafhof is simply a special place. The whole environment and working with the horses – that’s what I love.”
Her boss Matthias Alexander Rath is naturally happy to hear these words. The successful dressage rider is convinced by the Equestrian Stable Management Program, which is why he has supported it as a partner stable right from the start. “The ESM program is incredibly important because it imparts a great deal of knowledge and fills a gap that has existed for a long time. I am sure that it will train the employees of the future,” he emphasizes.
If you too would like to become a stable manager of the future, apply now for the class of 2025/26 and benefit from scholarships and early bird discounts!
