CareerContacts Karlsruhe

CareerContacts is the flagship careers fair of Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (HKA) and ranks among the most important career events for students and graduates of engineering, business and media-related degree programmes in Baden-Württemberg. The event focuses on face-to-face discussions, tangible career opportunities and the practical exchange of knowledge between academia and industry.

The fair takes place at Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (HKA), one of Germany’s leading universities of applied sciences. CareerContacts is organised by the university itself, which provides excellent conditions for students entering the labour market through its extensive network of companies, research institutions and public-sector organisations. Firmly established within the university’s annual calendar, the event has become a key platform for recruitment, knowledge transfer and professional networking.

CareerContacts covers a broad range of current and forward-looking topics, including engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, computer science, business informatics, information management, media, business studies, digitalisation, and research and development. Particular emphasis is placed on supporting the transition from higher education into professional life. In addition, a dedicated exhibition day focuses on the construction sector, covering subjects such as architecture, civil engineering, infrastructure development, geodesy, surveying and construction project management.

Exhibiting organisations showcase a wide range of products, technologies and services. These include innovative software solutions, digital applications, automation and manufacturing technologies, engineering and consultancy services, research projects, infrastructure concepts, and advanced solutions for energy supply and mobility. Of particular interest are opportunities for internships, working student positions, bachelor's and master's thesis projects, graduate trainee schemes and direct-entry roles for recent graduates.

Thanks to its close ties with Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences and the economically dynamic Karlsruhe technology region, the fair enjoys strong regional and national significance. Karlsruhe is recognised as one of Germany’s leading centres for information technology, innovation and research, providing an ideal environment for collaboration between employers and emerging talent. CareerContacts helps retain highly qualified professionals within the region while strengthening long-term knowledge exchange between academia and industry.

Key features of the event include extensive networking opportunities, one-to-one career discussions with recruitment professionals, company presentations, and information on current career paths and professional development prospects. The focus is firmly on direct recruitment and the establishment of lasting professional relationships.

Exhibitors primarily represent the automotive and automotive supply industries, software and information technology, mechanical and plant engineering, energy and electrical engineering, construction and infrastructure, financial and IT services, as well as consulting and engineering sectors. Visitors include students, graduates and early-career professionals from engineering, computer science, business, media and construction-related disciplines who are seeking information on career opportunities and direct contact with prospective employers.

The university campus provides modern facilities, short walking distances and an ideal environment for productive conversations between employers and young professionals. Located in a central area of Karlsruhe, the university is easily accessible by both public transport and car. Its proximity to Karlsruhe Central Station and excellent connections to regional and national transport networks make CareerContacts convenient to reach for visitors from across the region and beyond. As a result, the fair offers outstanding conditions for fostering meaningful connections between higher education, research and professional practice.

The CareerContacts will take place on 4 days from Monday, 19. October to Thursday, 22. October 2026 in Karlsruhe.