Students Collaborate with Companies in the Field of Health
As part of a project seminar, students from the University of Bayreuth developed two topics related to employee health and analysed them directly in collaboration with a company. This resulted in significant added value for both the students and the partner company. The findings were presented at a final event, where long-term implementation was also discussed.
TenneT TSO GmbH
In the project seminar "Health & Fitness Management – Implementing Health Programmes", led by Dr. Jessica Helten, Master's students from the degree programmes in Sports Economics and Food & Health Sciences work together with companies on practical issues aimed at promoting employee health as effectively as possible. During the past summer semester, twelve students took part in the seminar and worked on two topics for the cooperation partner TenneT TSO GmbH.
Background
In today’s working world, employees face a wide range of challenges that often affect their health and wellbeing. At the same time, companies offering appropriate support increase their attractiveness as employers in a labour market shaped by skills shortages. The Always Energy department at TenneT focuses on both the physical and mental health of employees, aiming to make everyday life healthier – both professionally and personally.
The Two Topics
The seminar addressed two different target groups within the company: new starters and long-standing employees.
In the first project, the students examined how new employees perceive TenneT’s health programme and how they evaluate the initial onboarding process. The aim was to better understand the subjective perception and individual significance of the Always Energy workplace health programme. New employees were asked how they generally perceive the programme, which offerings they find effective, what expectations they have, and to what extent health promotion is already integrated into their working day – or could be better integrated in the future. The results provide key insights into how the programme is perceived and its impact: most new employees consider it a valuable offering.
In the second project, the students focused on the awareness and perception of the programme among employees who have been with the company for a longer period. The survey, which was completed by over 600 employees, offers valuable insights into the current state of internal communication and acceptance of TenneT’s health initiatives. The findings show that the Always Energy programme goes far beyond traditional workplace health management measures.
Together, the two projects gave students essential insights into TenneT’s workplace health management. Important findings were gained regarding perceptions, attitudes, and usage patterns. These results are now intended to be integrated into TenneT’s long-term health promotion strategy.
