Alfred University Students Explore the Intersection of German Engineering and Culture with CEPA

January 2026 in Germany

This January, Alfred University students embarked on an immersive 10-day educational journey across Germany titled “German Autos meets Deutsche Kultur.” Running from January 9 to 18, 2026, the program offered a deep dive into the heart of the world’s most iconic automotive hubs. Students traveled from the industrial centers of Stuttgart and Heidenheim to the historic streets of Munich, participating in a blend of academic rigor and cultural exploration. The itinerary featured exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the Porsche and Mercedes-Benz museums, a visit to the Mercedes-Benz production plant in Sindelfingen, and a specialized tour of the MAN Truck & Bus classic vehicle collection, providing a firsthand look at the evolution of mobility and precision engineering.

Beyond the factory floors, the program emphasized Germany’s complex history and vibrant local traditions. Students engaged in intensive business simulations and projects at DHBW Heidenheim, paired with walking tours of medieval Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the historic city centers of Stuttgart and Munich. The journey also included a sobering and educational visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the nation’s past.

Facilitated by CEPA Study Abroad, the trip also prioritized sustainability; in alignment with CEPA’s Climate Action Plan, a tree was planted in the Costa Rican rainforest on behalf of each participant to mitigate the travel’s environmental impact, leaving a lasting positive legacy long after the students returned to the U.S.