Outstanding commitment to craftsmanship: Federal Cross of Merit for Rudi Müller

Rudi Müller received the Federal Cross of Merit: The master carpenter served for many years as president of the Trier Chamber of Skilled Crafts and specialized in ecological building early on. The award was presented by State Minister of Economic Affairs Daniela Schmitt.

For his decades of outstanding commitment to craftsmanship, the economy and society, Economics Minister Daniela Schmitt on February 6th Federal Cross of Merit awarded to Rudolf (Rudi) Müller from Pluwig (Trier-Saarburg district). The award will be presented. on behalf of the Federal President forgive.

"Rudolf Müller is a prime example of a craft that takes responsibility – for people, for the region, and for the future," emphasized Minister Schmitt. "He recognized early on that economic success, ecological responsibility, and social commitment belong together."

The 74-year-old's career path was closely connected with the crafts of Rhineland-Palatinate"He began his carpentry apprenticeship at the age of 13, passed his master craftsman's examination and took over the family business in 1981 as the third generation owner," the minister emphasized.

A pioneer in ecological building

Photo: © Ministry of Economic Affairs RLP

As early as the 1980s, Müller specialized in ecological building, studied building biology in Rosenheim and turned his carpentry business into a Pioneers in pollutant-free, sustainable livingHis company has received numerous awards, including the Rhineland-Palatinate Environmental Award. In addition to his entrepreneurial activities, Müller was actively involved in... with great continuity on a voluntary basis – especially for the vocational training of young people and the integration of people with disabilities into the labor market. His company was awarded the state prize for exemplary employment of severely disabled people in 2000.

One focus of his work was in Volunteer work in the trades. From his work in the trades sector to numerous examination boards and finally to his presidency of the Trier Chamber of Skilled Crafts, Müller shaped the development of skilled crafts in Rhineland-Palatinate and beyond for decades.

From 2005 to 2024 he was at the helm of the Trier Chamber of Crafts, which he significantly modernized during this time. A visible sign of this is the "Campus Crafts", which was opened in 2022 as the first nationwide inter-company vocational training center built to passive house standards.

What is the Federal Cross of Merit? The Order of Merit, colloquially also known as the Federal Cross of Merit, is the highest honor bestowed by the Federal Republic of Germany for services to the common good. It is awarded for political, economic, social, and intellectual achievements. The order is awarded in eight classes. Source: Bundespräsident.de

"The craft always reimagined"

Müller also made significant contributions at the European level. As President of the Interregional Council of Chambers of Skilled Crafts of the Greater Region, he promoted cross-border cooperation and the recognition of skilled craft qualifications. Furthermore, he was active in academia, higher education, local politics, and numerous social organizations.

 "Rudolf Müller never merely administered the craft, but always thought ahead," said Minister Schmitt. "With perseverance, integrity, and the ability to inspire others. For this, he deserves our gratitude – and this high honor."

With the Federal Cross of Merit, the Federal President honors a lifetime of work that has had a lasting impact on craftsmanship, the state of Rhineland-Palatinate and society.

Source: Ministry of Economic Affairs Rhineland-Palatinate

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