Engineer Tom Breitsprecher, who has always been more interested in women than political engagement, reluctantly agrees to supervise a team of young FDJ volunteers who are building a new industrial complex. There, he meets model socialist and married FDJ secretary Grit. In spite of conflicts with each other and with moral norms, the two fall in love. Although they try to keep their relationship a secret, it is not long before their collegues become aware of the affair and Grit must choose between love and her reputation.