Stefan Schieder

Research & development employee – wind energy

My job: following in the footsteps of Gyro Gearloose

Even as a child, I loved to take things apart and find out how they work. This later became a specific technical interest – I liked to repair bicycles, for example. So it was quite clear to me at a relatively early stage that I rather liked a "practical" profession… By studying for a Master's degree in "Industrial Design and Manufacturing" I became increasingly enthusiastic about research – so it was only logical to look for a job in this field of work. So I joined the research and development department as a trainee and found myself in a very experienced team. That was a stroke of luck – as a greenhorn, I was able to benefit from the knowledge and routine workflows of my colleagues. After the trainee year, I specialized in surface technology – one of our development projects was honored with the thyssenkrupp Innovation Award in 2011. Here I had my first contacts with the wind energy industry. Later, I focused on the development and research of blade adjustment bearings for wind turbines, and recently I started testing rotor bearings.

My challenges

In research, one must constantly explore new avenues. There is a first time for everything. This requires creativity and innovation – but we must not lose sight of the practical feasibility. Healthy pragmatism is important. Another challenge is the need to teach colleagues in the production-oriented departments that further developments are necessary. Research and development must often lag behind urgent, scheduled customer orders. In order to reach the goal, however, you need good reasoning and assertiveness.

My typical working day

My tasks are so flexible that there is no typical working day. Usually I spend half of my time in the office, for example when I am developing test plans or evaluating test results. The other half of the time I'll be "at the coal face", in the test area: There, I prepare the measuring technology and carry out the tests on our test benches.

Our slogan is "engineering. tomorrow. together." Together means for me …

… open communication! It's only possible to arrive at an optimal solution if you regularly discuss and exchange information with your colleagues. At the same time, "together" means that everyone wants to pull together and achieve the same goal. This means the will to accomplish the task together instead of just batting a problem away from one's own desk – this must be absolutely necessary.

Realizing your potential, having fun, being happy

As an employee of thyssenkrupp, I know that with my work I help shape the future to a certain extent. For example, by further developing slewing bearings for wind turbines, I can make my own personal contribution to the energy revolution. Working at thyssenkrupp means for me to be part of an innovative, future-oriented company – a company that treats its employees in an extremely fair and equitable manner. Working atmosphere, general conditions, opportunities for development – all these are simply harmonious.