Theresa Damm, a recent graduate in carpentry, has been chosen as ambassador of DACH+HOLZ International 2026. With an inspiring story about discovering a passion for woodworking and a clear vision for the future, she represents the next generation of German traditional craft professionals.
Theresa Damm discovered carpentry at the age of 15 while building her parents' house. It quickly became clear to her that this was her path.
Theresa, how did you get the idea to become a carpenter and what do you like about it?
Theresa: My parents built a house that is two-thirds wood. I was 15 at the time and was able to watch the construction step by step. It impressed me how something so large and complex could be created from wood. During an internship at the carpentry company that built our house, I was able to do all this work myself. Driving the crane, cutting the boards, screwing the slats - this combination of physical labor and precision craftsmanship immediately excited me.
Which tasks do you enjoy most?
Theresa: Operating the crane, joining wood and erecting the framework - these are my favorite moments. It's a great feeling to see something grow and take shape under your own hands.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in this job?
Theresa: Of course there are physically demanding tasks and sometimes I need help. But that happens to many of my male colleagues. Overall, I've had almost exclusively positive experiences. Working with other guilds is usually uncomplicated, and I am often offered help on my own initiative. Fortunately, so far I have not had any inappropriate comments.
Are there any projects from your training period that you are proud of?
Theresa: Yes, in particular working on the roof of the St. Georg Town Church in Freising. In the second year of my apprenticeship, I had the opportunity to make a rafter - from the measurements to the use of large circular saws to the finished piece. This project showed me what I can do and was a real milestone for me.
You completed your training in the summer of 2024. After that you traveled to Africa for three months. Where did you go and what experiences did you gain there?
Theresa: This break has been incredibly exciting! The tour took me from South Africa through Zimbabwe to Egypt and Jordan. In South Africa I worked on a farm and got to know not only how people live but also how they work. Many people there live in houses that they build themselves out of bricks, dry grass, twigs and cables. They often don't have proper tools and it impressed me how they can accomplish so much with bare hands and simple means.
What do your future plans look like now?
Theresa: I did my training in a big carpentry workshop in Munich. Now I want to gain more experience as a skilled craftsman in a smaller workshop. I am currently in the process of applying and going on work trials to find the right company for me. In no more than four years I want to get my master carpenter qualification. I am particularly interested in planning work - talking to clients, creating plans and working closely with architects and engineers.
You have been chosen as the face of DACH+HOLZ International 2026. What does this fair mean to you?
Theresa: It is a great honor to take on this role. I've never been to DACH+HOLZ before and I'm really enjoying it. The fair offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the industry and exchange experiences with others. I find particularly interesting the new technologies and innovative working methods that are presented there.
How do you assess the importance of fairs for promoting young people in the craft sector?
Theresa: Fairs are a great way to attract young people to crafts. At the International Craftsmen's Fair in Munich, I worked with the carpenters' guild and saw how positively young people react to first-hand experience in the craft. Practical experience - being able to try something yourself - often makes the decisive difference.
What trends are you seeing in carpentry at the moment?
Theresa: Technologies such as CNC joining machines, drones and tablets are gaining more and more ground. They are making work more precise and efficient in many areas. I'm curious to learn more about these developments and apply them in practice.
Do you have any advice for young people who are interested in this profession?
Theresa: Just give it a try! It's important to have the courage to follow a path that really suits you, rather than choosing something because everyone else does. Crafts have incredibly much to offer - more than many people realize.
DACH+HOLZ International will take place from February 24-27, 2026 at the Cologne Exhibition Center. More information on https://www.dach-holz.com/
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