40 Years of Trenkwalder:

This year, Trenkwalder Personaldienste GmbH celebrates a remarkable milestone: 40 years of expertise in human resource management – shaped by continuous development and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing world of work. What began in 1985 as a small company in Steyr, Upper Austria, is today a Europe-wide HR and business partner that successfully connects people with companies and actively helps shape the future of the industry.

From Classic Personnel Services to a Digital HR Partner

Over the past four decades, Trenkwalder has evolved from a traditional staffing provider into a modern technology and consulting partner. Today, the company supports its clients not only in recruitment and temporary staffing, but also in complex processes such as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and AI-driven HR solutions.

Data-based models help companies optimize workforce planning and recruiting. With intelligent systems for skill matching, workforce management, and process automation, Trenkwalder provides forward-thinking support tailored to the needs of a fast-moving labor market.

Technology and Humanity: Our Recipe for Future Success

Digitalization and automation will continue to shape the future of HR management. But Trenkwalder intentionally combines technological innovation with human expertise. The integrated HR platform connects recruiting, talent management, and workforce analytics in real time – enabling faster and more precise decision-making.

At the same time, people remain at the center of everything we do: technology is designed to simplify processes, not replace human insight. This creates modern, efficient, and empathetic HR services that serve the needs of both companies and employees.

From the Very Beginning: Our Longest-Serving Employees Share Their Stories

To mark 40 years of Trenkwalder, we are not only looking back at the history of the company – but at the people who helped write this history. They have been part of our journey for decades, have experienced change and growth, and have helped shape it.

We spoke with four of our longest-serving colleagues – Slavica, Sonja, Sissi and Ilse – and asked them to share their personal memories, reflections, and experiences with us.

Slavica (33 years at Trenkwalder)

• How many years have you been part of Trenkwalder, and how do you feel when you look back at that time?
  After 33 years, I can look back with pride and gratitude at a long period that has shaped me both professionally and personally. I had the privilege of being part of a great team and meeting many wonderful people.
  

• What has motivated you to stay with the company all these years?
  It was never “just a job.” It was the people around me – colleagues you could laugh with, learn from, and get through difficult times together.
  

• Are there special memories or moments that have stayed with you?
  I was especially touched by the celebrations, anniversaries, and events where you could really feel that we were more than colleagues – almost like a family. These memories stay with me, and they are priceless.
  

• In your opinion, how has Trenkwalder changed over the years?
  Despite all the changes, one thing has remained the same: the commitment to people. The heart of Trenkwalder has always been the way we treat one another.
  

• Describe Trenkwalder in a few words – what does the company or your colleagues mean to you personally?
  For me, the company was more than just a workplace – it felt like home. Over time, colleagues became friends you could always rely on.

Sonja (30 years at Trenkwalder)

• How many years have you been part of Trenkwalder, and how do you feel when you look back?
  I’ve been with Trenkwalder for 30 years, and I keep thinking: Wow, where has the time gone? It doesn’t feel that long at all. 😉
  

• What has motivated you to stay with the company all these years?
  I started as an apprentice and today I am the head of the payroll department. There is always something new – new challenges that keep the work exciting. These challenges help you grow, and that’s what keeps me motivated.
  

• Are there special memories or moments that have stayed with you?
  After such a long time, there are countless wonderful, funny, and also sad memories – it’s hard to choose just one. From my final apprenticeship exam (sadly without distinction), to changing departments (with all colleagues dressed in black), to excursions and company events – I hope many more great moments will follow.
  

• How has Trenkwalder changed over the years?
  From a small family business to a corporation. The company grew very quickly, and digitalization has accelerated and continues to move forward – creating new opportunities for the company and its employees.
  

• Describe Trenkwalder in a few words – what does the company or your colleagues mean to you personally?
  Like friends and family – because we face highs and lows together, support each other, and always have each other’s backs.

Sissi (34 years at Trenkwalder)

• How many years have you been part of Trenkwalder, and how do you feel when you look back?
  I’ve been with Trenkwalder for 34 years, including six years seconded to another company and later working in controlling and payroll. As more and more colleagues retire, I’m slowly realizing that I’m no longer among the youngest either. Looking back, the time has flown by far too quickly. But I’m grateful to continue spending many more years here with all of you.
  

• What has motivated you to stay with the company all these years?
  I have always felt comfortable here, was surrounded by a great team, and we always motivated each other even in difficult times.
  

• Are there special memories or moments that have stayed with you?
  The company celebrations were always something very special and memorable.
  

• Describe Trenkwalder in a few words – what does the company or your colleagues mean to you personally?
  Many of my colleagues have been with me for a long time – some are now already enjoying retirement. We have always tried to make the best of every situation. When I think of the COVID-19 pandemic, for example: it was a very challenging time for our department, but we managed it well – only because we worked together as a team.

Ilse (31 years at Trenkwalder)

• How many years have you been part of Trenkwalder, and how do you feel when you look back?
  I have been with Trenkwalder for 31 years – an exciting and challenging time, full of achievements and obstacles we overcame. Never a dull moment at work!
  

• What has motivated you to stay with the company all these years?
  A team of creative people who enjoy solving problems. Team spirit and working together.
  

• Are there special memories or moments that have stayed with you?
  COVID was a real test for our payroll department. Only through teamwork and around 3,000 overtime hours were we able to manage that period. We spent evenings working together online until midnight – talking, working, and keeping our spirits up with humor. I want to thank all my colleagues for mastering those three years together – even during the toughest times.
  

• How has Trenkwalder changed over the years?
  For many years, Trenkwalder was a true family business with close personal ties. That spirit remains: when a problem arises, we roll up our sleeves and solve it together – and that’s what I appreciate to this day.
  

• Describe Trenkwalder in a few words – what does the company or your colleagues mean to you personally?
  A vision that came true. People who contribute their time, energy, ideas, joy in finding solutions, collegiality, and friendship – even in difficult phases.

Thank You for Your Commitment – Day After Day, Year After Year

The stories of Slavica, Sonja, Ilse, and Sissi represent many long-standing colleagues who have shaped the development of Trenkwalder with heart, dedication, and expertise. They are the reason the company has been successful for decades – and will continue to be in the future.

Thank you for being such an important part of our history. Here’s to the next 40 years!

A Look Ahead: Where Do We Go From Here?

Technological advancement will continue to be a driving force in the coming years. Trenkwalder will keep investing in AI, automation, and data intelligence to develop innovative services and enhance existing processes.

But despite all innovation, one thing remains constant: People are at the center of everything we do.

With a clear vision based on trust, partnership, and innovation, Trenkwalder will continue shaping the future of work – together with its employees, customers, and partners.

Conclusion

40 years of Trenkwalder stand for growth, innovation, and the successful fusion of humanity and technology. The company has mastered the challenges of the modern working world and established itself as a pioneer in digital HR transformation. With strong values, fresh ideas, and a clear vision for the future, Trenkwalder will remain a reliable partner for companies and talent for decades to come.

Celebrate With Us!

Trenkwalder extends heartfelt thanks to all employees, customers, and partners who have supported and shaped this journey. Together, we look back on four successful decades – and look forward to a future full of innovation, collaboration, and new opportunities.