06.11.24 | Excursion: Beneath the Surface: How Mining and Steel Shape Local Industries | FIT: Soft Skills & Employability

On November 6, 2024, international students explored the deep industrial roots of the Siegerland with a visit to Müsen’s historic mining museum. This guided tour offered a unique look into how mining shaped not only the region’s economy but its very existence.

Historically, the Siegerland’s mountainous terrain and harsh climate made agriculture challenging, meaning that mining became the area’s primary source of livelihood and growth. Mining, which began here over 2,500 years ago, laid the foundation for settlements and sustained communities, fueling a network of industrial trades that eventually turned the region into one of Germany’s most industrious areas. Without mining, the cities and industries in the Siegerland as we know them might not have developed.

The tour highlighted the technical processes of early mining. Students learned how the raw materials mined here helped create jobs and supported the growth of global steel companies. This immersion into the Siegerland's industrial heritage provided students with not just historical knowledge but also a better understanding of the local economic landscape and its lasting impact on today’s job market.

For international students, this excursion was a powerful way to connect with the region's cultural values of resilience and innovation and to network with peers. It underscored how the region’s history continues to shape its present-day industries and communities.

See what your fellow students say:

"Being in the depths of the mine, surrounded by history and innovation, truly felt like stepping into an adventure film. I loved learning about the dedication and hard work that shaped the Siegerland region’s culture ,it gave me a new perspective on the local mentality and the pioneering spirit in mining practices." - Aybaniz

"Reflecting on my recent excursion to the Mining Museum in Musen, organized by the University of Siegen, I came away with a deep appreciation for the role mining has played in shaping both the city of Siegen and the broader region of Germany. The visit highlighted how mining isn't merely a chapter of local history but is deeply woven into the cultural DNA of Siegen, characterized by the city's renowned motto: "Work hard, do less talking." This ethos, forged through generations of resilient miners, has left a lasting legacy on Siegen's identity and values." - Aadarsha