What happens when academic knowledge meets modern manufacturing? Fourth-year students of the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Forestry, specializing in Wood Processing and Manufacturing Engineering, had the opportunity to discover the answer to this question during their visit to Enterijer Janković in June 2026, accompanied by Professor Branko Glavonjić and faculty assistants.
The study programme offered by the Faculty of Forestry provides students with fundamental knowledge of materials, technologies, and production processes, while field visits allow them to experience how these principles are applied in a real industrial environment.
For students preparing for careers as wood technology engineers, interior designers, furniture constructors, or production specialists, visiting a company such as Enterijer Janković in Novi Sad represents an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with real projects and the everyday challenges they will encounter working in the industry.
Professional Introduction to the World of Modern Manufacturing
The visit began with presentations by company experts, who introduced students to different segments of Enterijer Janković’s operations. Company owner Božo Janković presented the company’s development over three decades of work, from a small carpentry workshop to one of the region’s leading manufacturers of complex interior solutions.
Through presentations by key members of the production team, students gained insight into the journey behind each project - from the organization of the production process presented by Production Director Nemanja Drobnjak, through production planning and monitoring explained by Production Planner Kristina Blešić, to the design development and technical preparation that form the foundation of successful project realization, presented by Project Designer Adnan Krluč.
Božo Janković with students of the Faculty of Forestry on three decades of development, innovation, and success of Enterijer Janković
How Unique Projects Come to Life
During the visit, students had the opportunity to learn about the complete project realization process at Enterijer Janković.
Unlike serial production, where identical products are manufactured in large quantities, every project at Enterijer Janković represents a unique challenge. Students were able to see how a project develops from the initial client contact, through technical development and production preparation, all the way to the installation of finished elements on site.
Special attention was given to the way different specialists collaborate throughout the process - from interior designers and furniture constructors to engineers, production teams, quality control departments, and installation crews. This approach allowed students of the Faculty of Forestry to gain a broader understanding of the manufacturing process and recognize how interconnected all segments of a complex project truly are.
Materials, Structures and Solutions Behind Luxury Interior Projects
In the production facilities of Enterijer Janković, students had the opportunity to learn about the processing of materials such as solid wood, veneer, particle boards, and other engineered wood materials used in modern interior manufacturing. Particular interest was generated by the veneer matching process and the production of large veneered surfaces, where students could see how exceptional aesthetic results are achieved through a combination of precision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
The head of the manual processing department presents new techniques for creating curved elements
Modern Machinery as a Tool for Future Wood Processing Engineers
One of the most interesting parts of the visit was CNC wood processing. Students had the opportunity to observe advanced five-axis CNC machines that enable the production of complex shapes and components that were once created exclusively through manual craftsmanship.
They were especially interested in the software used for machine programming and the way digital models are transformed into finished products. Many questions focused on production organization, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and monitoring production through different stages of realization.
This experience helped students better understand how modern technologies are transforming the wood processing industry and improving efficiency, precision, and product quality.
The initial stages of wood carving: modern CNC wood processing
Beyond Wood: Integration of Metal, Stone, and Advanced Finishing Processes
Students were particularly impressed by the way different materials - wood, metal, and stone - are integrated into a unified design concept, which is one of the key requirements of contemporary luxury interiors. This approach demonstrates that today’s furniture and interior manufacturing industry requires broad technical knowledge and an understanding of diverse production processes.
In the Alumetal metal processing sector, students observed processes such as laser cutting, bending, and the production of complex metal structures. Special attention was drawn to geometrically demanding elements, as well as the way metal components are integrated with wooden elements within a single project. They were also introduced to mirror-polished stainless steel finishes and various surface treatment techniques that influence the final appearance of products.
In addition to wood and metal, students also had the opportunity to explore the work of AluStone, sector specialized in stone processing. During this part of the tour, they learned how natural and engineered stone are processed using modern technologies – from precision cutting and edge processing to finishing techniques that allow stone surfaces to become part of highly demanding interior projects.
In the finishing department, students also saw new robotic coating technology, including the Superfici Valtorta Bravorobot line, as well as high-gloss finishing processes, which represent one of the most demanding stages of surface treatment.
Showcase of high-gloss wood finishes
How Turnkey Interiors for Hotels and Commercial Spaces Are Created
One of the most valuable impressions students gained from the field visit was a complete understanding of the entire production process. From the initial drawings and technical preparation through manufacturing and quality control, to packaging, transportation, and furniture installation - every step represents an essential part of a unified process.
For this reason, the final visit to the EJ Showroom and model rooms represented the perfect conclusion to the tour. Only after seeing completed interiors could students connect all individual production stages with the final result. At one location, they were able to see how turnkey interiors are created for luxury hotel chains, commercial buildings, and other complex furnishing projects, gaining a deeper understanding of contemporary approaches to design and manufacturing.
Why Field Education Matters for Future Engineers
Visits like this are valuable both for students and for companies operating in the wood processing and furniture manufacturing industries. Cooperation between educational institutions and industry enables young professionals to gain a realistic understanding of market requirements, become familiar with modern technologies, and identify future career opportunities.
In addition to university students, Enterijer Janković also organizes educational visits for vocational school students, such as students from the DrvoArt school in Belgrade,providing them with practical insight into modern wood processing and furniture manufacturing.
For years, company owner Božo Janković has been driven by a vision rooted in the connection between knowledge, innovation, and production excellence. A vision that creates a space where new generations of professionals can learn, evolve, and build the expertise that will accompany them throughout their careers. In this environment, production is no longer just a series of processes - it becomes a carefully orchestrated journey, where every step contributes to creating exceptional results that leave a lasting impression.
