The Kaps Foundation was set up in 1997 with the aim of nurturing young talent in the metal trade. The motivation for the initiative was as an obvious lack of image for the profession. The job of metal trader was not regarded as a classic occupation requiring specific training, but rather one which required more general training as a wholesaler or trader.
Consequently there was no specific training profile for the career of metal trader and the training content was anything but clearly defined. These days a metal trader has to master a wide range of challenges: dwindling raw materials call for an economical, efficient, and expert approach to the handling of natural resources.
In addition, metal traders need extensive technical expertise and special knowledge of the business world and the economy. These are precisely the areas on which the Kaps Foundation focuses.