How has your career developed since you joined us as a trainee?

As a trainee at DRÄXLMAIER in the management of series production electrics, I ensured, among other things, that the production of wiring harnesses for new vehicles started on schedule. During my career, I was at the plant in Thailand for two years, where I was responsible for the production of wiring harnesses as Operations Manager Electrics, and so at the age of 26 I had already taken on a management position.

I quickly landed in my current position as New Product Launch Manager for Battery Systems, where others already have several years of professional experience. My job is to provide operational project support in terms of production, logistics and quality. I ensure that industrialization takes place on schedule and within budget, and I am the interface between the customer, management and the team. This means that I always have an overview of all operational issues and an understanding of the entire process in the value chain. Although the electrical systems area is my technical base, I am currently working my way into the battery systems segment as quickly as possible. So I can work across the board, and thanks to the size of the company there are lots of options.

What advantages does the trainee program offer from your point of view?

The trainee program ensures visibility in the company and offers the opportunity to make many contacts. If you perform well, you can position yourself very well.

You have access to a broad training program that covers not only technical knowledge, but also topics such as personality, leadership and communication. There's also a great team spirit in the company and within the program, and I still have a stable network with my trainee colleagues from back then and contacts in almost all departments.

What advice do you have for future trainees to successfully complete the program?

Think outside the box, be innovative and actively look for new solutions. To do this, you should also ask questions and criticize constructively. I also think it's important to build a solid foundation by understanding your business from the ground up. For me, that means working on the production line from time to time.