Fails Night at Enke Werk in Düsseldorf:
When mistakes lead to progress
On 19 March 2025, the Enke Werk in Düsseldorf once again became the venue for a special exchange. At the second Fails Night, the trades came together – honestly, openly and with an eye to the future. Initiated by master roofer and managing director Oliver Oettgen of Over Dach GmbH, the event embodies a culture in which mistakes are not swept under the carpet, but are seen as a starting point for learning, innovation and development.
Fails Night Düsseldorf at Enke’s
An open culture of error as a catalyst for the skilled trades and leadership
The focus was on three speakers who shared their personal experiences of wrong decisions, failed projects or courageous changes of direction. It wasn’t about perfect success stories, but about genuine insights that many in the room would recognise from their own everyday working lives. It was precisely this blend of approachability, practical expertise and reflection that made the presentations so valuable, for young craftspeople as well as for experienced business owners.
Following the presentations, host Oliver Oettgen and business consultant Uli Kainzinger explored the topics in greater depth in a discussion with the speakers. The discussion centred on why an open culture of acknowledging mistakes not only takes the pressure off individuals but also has a positive impact on the business. Topics included trust, team spirit and leadership, as well as the question of how setbacks can contribute to better decisions and more stable processes.
The evening clearly demonstrated that those who are prepared to talk about mistakes foster a culture of equality within the skilled trades. A culture that motivates, strengthens and lays the Basis for long-term development.
A format that’s growing.
It is no coincidence that the event was once again held at Enke. The company has always stood for a practical, solution-oriented approach to challenges – whether in terms of products, service or working together. Fails Night fits perfectly with this ethos: open, honest and forward-looking.
The fact that guests attended not only in person but also online via a live stream shows just how strong the interest is in this new form of exchange. Fails Night strikes a chord – and encourages us to break new ground together.
To be continued: 17 June 2025
Following its huge success, the next event has already been confirmed: on 17 June 2025, the third Fails Night will take place once again at the Enke-Werk in Düsseldorf. It will once again feature real-life stories, open discussion and the aim of strengthening the craft – through honesty, reflection and solidarity.
Get involved and help shape the future
The format thrives on the courage of those who share their experiences. Craftspeople who would like to tell their own stories – of failure, of learning, of making a fresh start – are invited to apply to be a speaker.
Full details on taking part and applying can be found at: www.oliver-oettgen.de/fails-night
About Oliver Oettgen:
Oliver Oettgen, master roofer and managing director of Over Dach GmbH, draws his ideas from over 15 years’ experience in the roofing trade, during which he has personally overcome numerous challenges. With Over Dach GmbH, he has established himself as the region’s leading provider of flat roofing, façades and photovoltaic systems. This entrepreneurial journey, with all its ups and downs, has inspired him to create Fails Night as a platform for open discussion and constructive learning.
About Fails Night:
Fails Night is an event format initiated by Oliver Oettgen that promotes an open culture of embracing mistakes within the skilled trades. The aim is to share experiences, learn from mistakes and ensure the future viability of the skilled trades. The format is aimed not only at craftspeople, but at anyone who is willing to see mistakes as a springboard for innovation and further development.
Press contact:
Oliver Oettgen & Over Dach GmbH Ms S. Wollersheim, Assistant swo@oliver-oettgen.dewww.oliver-oettgen.de
Johannes Enke GmbH & Co. KG Ms N. Soltani, Press Officer soltani@enke-werk.dewww.enke-werk.de