Alumni Portraits
17 faculties, around 120 degree programs – TU Dresden has a lot to offer, and the medley of our alumni’s fields of work reflect this. The "Alumni of the Month" format highlights the career examples of selected alumni. These members of the alumni network maintain close ties to their alma mater.
Alumni of the Month for previous years
Alumniportraits
Have the courage to follow your passion!
Katharina Schwerdt studied Political Science, has lived and worked on four continents and now travels around the world as an international moderator for politics and business.
Between Saxony and the Silicon Valley: How a tech visionary is shaping the digital future
Rainer Gläß studied information technology, is a self-made millionaire and founder of an AI start-up in Silicon Valley. While others at the age of 66 are retiring, he is investing millions - also in renovating the facilities on the Fichtelberg mountain.
Fully blooming in the British forestry industry
Corazón Pfarre studied forestry and now lives in England. She recently received the highest award in the British forestry industry. As a TUD Alumni Ambassador, she also supports exchange between the two countries.
Fascinated by flying
Kevin-Christian Garzon Galindo consistently pursued his dream of flying. He studied Transport Engineering and spent a lot of time in the flight simulator. Today, he is an enthusiastic researcher and works at NASA on the future of aerospace.
From Au Pair to Silicon Valley
The circumstances surrounding Dr. Jeannet-Susann Kießling's doctorate were special. As was her entire career. Today, the political scientist works as Managing Director of the German American Business Association in California.
Committed to a safer internet
Tom Siegel is the founder and CEO of a Silicon Valley company. He studied industrial engineering and management, specializing in mechanical engineering. Recently he opened a German branch of his company. For old time's sake, it is in Dresden.
Her mission: global security
Janina Dill moved abroad after completing her Bachelor's degree in International Relations. She continued her studies, gained her doctorate and is now Professor of Global Security at Oxford. In a male-dominated field, she is a highly sought after, international expert.
Breaking new ground – risk or reward? An interview with a CEO
Thomas Stierle studied electrical engineering and then moved through various automotive sectors on his career path. He seized opportunities, calculated risks and broke new ground. Today, he heads the E-Mobility division at Schaeffler AG.
Your (career) path is forged by walking it.
Dr. Claudia Zech was interested in science, technology, and outer space from an early age. She studied physics and works now as a management consultant in the battery industry. She also gives advice on STEM degree programs on social media and offers mentoring.
“When you move to Dresden, you cry twice...”
For his Master’s degree, Damiano Cacace was looking for a university with an excellent reputation in a city with a high quality of life for his Master's degree in Hydroscience and Engineering. He found both these things in Dresden. Today he is group leader of the DREWAG drinking water laboratory.
“You can only bring about changes in society if you understand political processes.”
Sabrina Repp was the first in her family to go to university. She decided to study political science. Today, she is the youngest German member of the EU Parliament.
The goal: Traveling to bring about change
After completing her Bachelor's degree in International Relations at TU Dresden, Lilith Diringer completed two Master’s degrees in two years in the USA. Now she continues to run the sustainable travel start-up she founded during her studies.
Innovation as the connecting factor
Hannes Klöpper studied International Relations and founded two start-ups. As CEO of HelloBetter, a world-leading provider of digital applications, today he uses his expertise in negotiating to promote mental health.
Research, learn and get involved!
Simon Barbosa studied telecommuni-cations engineering because he was fascinated by how people can communicate with each other over long distances with the help of technical devices and systems. Today he builds bridges between the TUD, the city of Dresden and Colombia as a regional ambassador.
Study what you like - and motivates you!
Dora Pelin moved to Dresden and stayed - because of the cultural diversity, the comprehensive university and the Excellence Initiative. She studied German Studies and Art History at TUD and currently works as an Administrative Assistant and Linguist Assistant at the European Commission.
Armenian economic and environmental expert on a global assignment
Dr. Erik Grigoryan has held several international and professional positions. After participating in the UNEP/UNESCO/BMU course at CIPSEM, he entered government service. From 2018 to 2020, he was Armenia's Minister of the Environment. Now he is an entrepreneur.
"I chose this degree course because water is one of the most exciting resources of the future."
Johanna Zeeh studied hydrosciences and is now an expert in decentralized rainwater management, hydrological modelling, heavy rainfall prevention and blue-green urban development.
“The CIPSEM team is the icing on the cake”
Dr. Maria Jose Iturbide-Flores was the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources of Guatemala. She completed a UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV course at CIPSEM on Nature-based Solutions to Water Challenges at TUD in fall 2023.
Praise to craftsmanship!
Konstantin Scholz studied architecture and is a master craftsman for signs and illuminated advertising. Together with his company, he created the new photo spot consisting of three XXL 3D letters at the lecture hall center of the TU Dresden.
“My visiting professorship was the turning point in my career!”
The linguist Prof. Luisa Giacoma was Eleonore Trefftz Visiting Professor at TU Dresden. As a regional ambassador, she now builds bridges between the TUD and Italian universities and institutions.
Co-author of the Progress Report on Climate Technology 2023
Dr. Adedoyin Adeleke attended the UNEP/UNESCO/BMUB course at CIPSEM, then had a plan. But it didn't work in his home country Nigeria. He told Kontakt-online about his current concerns and how he managed to get a street renamed "Green Growth Avenue".
Be curious! Have a go! Have your say!
After completing her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Theresa Nadler wanted to broaden her professional horizons with a Master's degree in Education. Today, she assists companies in carrying out their digital transformation. It is her vision to empower employees and unlock the companies’ full potential.
Growing algae in pipes
Gunnar Mühlstädt actually wanted to study medicine. Health and healthy living are still close to the mechanical engineer's heart, which is why he and his team now produce algae in water greenhouses.
From Erasmus student to TUD regional ambassador
"I've learned a lot from the research culture at TUD!" Müslüm Kaplan initially came to Dresden as an Erasmus student, then studied Textile and Clothing Technology, and is now a TUD regional ambassador for research cooperation with Turkey.
Whatever you do, do it with complete dedication!
Whether with flowers, trees or rhododendrons, for Fleurop, IGA or local authorities - the Everts have been passionate gardeners for four generations, including Dierck and Johannes Landscape Architects.
Different perspectives are the secret to success
Mandy Schipke studied sociology. Today, she is Managing Director of the multi-award-winning Dresden-based NOVUM engineering GmbH and Chairwoman of the Board of the Energy Saxony network.
Brimming with Experience
Chenghao Dai is a PhD student at the IHI in Zittau. The 26-year-old industrial engineer has returned to Germany to study, holds a second job, and particularly likes the snow and winter here.
Preserving and updating the expertise of company founders
Dr. Martin Ebermann studied electrical engineering, Dr. Fabian Göttfert physics. Today, they work as development managers at InfraTec GmbH, and thus for the technology development of the Dresden-based company for infrared sensors and measurement technology.
Fascinated by ants and hoverflies
Maximilian Pink studied at IHI Zittau for his Masters in Biodiversity and Collection Management, is enthusiastic about taxonomy, keeps ants as pets and now works in insect monitoring at the Julius-Kühn-Institut Dossenheim.
Be clear about what your strengths are!
Dr. Matthäus Mittasch studied nanobiophysics. Today, he is researching "small molecule drugs" - novel drugs based on biomolecular condensates for the treatment of civilization diseases.
Definitely sustainable and always going above and beyond
While still taking her secondary school exams, Daniela Bohn announced that she wanted to become a manager. After studying “International Management” at IHI Zittau, she now works for Deutsche Bahn and is enthusiastic about the careers that are open to women in the company.
“I’ve always enjoyed construction”
Maximilian Hansen took seven years to study architecture because he was working at the same time. That experience still helps him today, as he focuses on sustainable trade show construction, event equipment, and paper architecture with his own company.
Through knowledge, experience, contacts - and perseverance - to the dream job.
Dr. Caroline Förster is the Managing Director of the Dresden Historical Society. As a Doctor of History and Communication Science, she is a brilliant expert when it comes to combining history, science and the media.
Seeds sprout more easily with today's youth
Anyone who wants to meet Kai Andersch in person in his home country will have to be patient. The forestry scientist spends many months a year traveling around the world. He is currently preparing an expedition to Lima to protect ancient Peruvian forests.
Researching, designing and implementing sustainable and livable cities
Wiebke Klemm has always felt an affinity for nature and the landscape. But she also wanted to be creative and positively influence people’s living space. For the past 20 years, the landscape architect with a PhD has been working and living in the Netherlands.
The biomedical scientist Carlos Chacón Martínez in conversation
"Give Me Five+!" - And discover what you always wanted to know about our TUD Alumni. We asked them to share, in our new “2 x 5 Questions” format, how they came to TUD, their experiences on campus, and where/with what responsibilities they currently work. Today: Carlos Chacón Martínez, CEO and founder of Niostem.
Take time to socialize!
More than 30 years after obtaining his doctorate, physicist Dr. Boubakar Barry still feels closely connected to TUD. Even today, the TUD regional ambassador and avid networker continues to benefit from the strong ties with his alma mater.
Talking about money requires trust
Entrepreneurship has fascinated Christian John ever since he was a student. He now offers financial support to budding entrepreneurs with innovative ideas. As an Investment Manager, the Economist advises and supports start-ups in Saxony.
Burning desire for thermoplastic composites
A stop along the Elbe river during a cycling trip inspired Christian Garthaus to move to Dresden. He had heard of TUD’s unusual Industrial Design Engineering degree program. He has now lived in Dresden for 20 years and established his own company in the city four years ago.
A first-rate second choice
At Girls’ Day in 10th grade, Anna Menschner discovered her fascination for Electrical Engineering. Although the subject was not her first choice, the 35-year-old engineer is now content with her career, which enabled her to become an entrepreneur three years ago. She particularly appreciates the creative freedom she has.
„Plastic-free is our thing“
Zeno Kakuschke has always been interested in business models. During his studies, the Business Economist joined forces with his peers to found a social start-up. With just 60 euros in start-up capital and no outside funding. The company has been growing for four years now, as has its mission to remain "resolutely plastic-free."
Entrepreneurship is awesome!
Nadine Schmieder-Galfe has already achieved more than many people do in their entire careers. The energetic expert in Biotechnology and Economic Law manages two companies, offers courses at the Summer School and is currently setting up a floating office.
„Was Ordentliches“ mit Spaßschleife
Andreas Wilde has a Diplom degree in Architecture. His studies at TUD laid the foundations for his company that creates innovative board games that integrate apps into gameplay. At first glance, you may believe this has nothing to do with architecture. But if you look a little closer, the connection will be more clear. As a designer, it’s important to him to create games that have a deeper meaning beneath the fun.
Stories from a cycling enthusiast
By studying Political Science, Sociology, as well as Modern and Contemporary History, Markus Weinberg laid the foundation for his current editorial work. He was usually successful in combining his love for cycling with his professional goals. For his most recent film "Jonas Deichmann – Das Limit bin nur ich"(Jonas Deichmann - I am the limit), he accompanied an extreme athlete as he completed a triathlon around the world. It was released in May 2022 in German movie theaters.
A "man of many hats" who is close to the political action
Felix Braunsdorf studied Political Science with a minor in Media and Communication. He now works as a migration and development advisor in the Global and European Policy Department at the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung foundation in Berlin.
Regional ambassador for Ukraine and the United Kingdom at TUD
The war in Ukraine has elicited horror and rage. Ianina Scheuch is personally affected. The alumna of International Relations was just about to submit her dissertation, but put it on pause to help her compatriots.
"A child of the uni" with a love of research
Angela Francke started a degree in Transport Economics at TU Dresden in 1998 because she wanted to run her own hotel. Her focus changed, and today she holds one of just seven professorships in cycling in all of Germany at the University of Kassel.
Liaising between science and policy for green gases
Industrial engineering was a good match for Philipp Hauser. Now he is a consultant on scientific studies for VNG AG. The current situation in Europe illustrates the relevance not only of his work, but also of the subject of his doctorate.
A global vision: knowledge for all
Dr. Martin Gerlach is a physicist. When he decided to study at TUD, he doubted that he was capable enough. Ten years later, he had completed his doctorate. In his current role, he helps to close knowledge gaps around the world.
Forensic medicine is not like what you see on TV
Before Katrin Metzler could become a doctor, she completed training to become a nurse. Today, she is one of the few forensic scientists in Germany. Her daily routine takes place in the dissecting room.
From the improbable to the right track
Benedikt Wiedenhofer is the first member of his family to attend university. He studied International Relations at TUD. Today, he works in Brussels as a trade policy advisor at the European association of business federations, BusinessEurope.
It had to be wood
Matthias Merten was born in the Ore Mountains, the son of a master wooden toymaker. His passion for this sustainable material led him to study Wood and Fiber Material Technology at TU Dresden. For many years, he has been making Räuchermänner (literally ‘smoking men’) in the town of Seiffen on the German-Czech border.
Communication is essential
Christiane Bonk studied Communication and Political Science. Now, she is the Equal Opportunities Officer of the City of Oranienburg and Chair of the State Commission of Municipal Equal Opportunities Officers for the State of Brandenburg.
Strategy engineer for Formula 1
Florian Fiedler helps Fomula 1 drivers reach the podium. As a child, he enjoyed tinkering in his grandpa’s workshop. Later, he stopped finding “normal cars” quite so exciting after an internship, but his love for racing cars grew, thanks to his involvement with Elbflorace during his degree program in Mechanical Engineering.
“You can do more with the right motivation”
Stefanie Gentzsch attended TU Dresden’s Pupils’ University starting at age 15, studying Psychology and Social Pedagogy. An injury she sustained was only one reason for her decision. Today, there are a number of things the 25-year-old would like to see change in Germany’s schools.
“People focus on family history on holidays and in times of crisis”
After earning a degree in History and German Studies, Lars Thiele discovered his true calling. He is now a professional genealogist who helps people uncover their roots and is also commissioned to undertake extraordinary historical research.
MacGyver-style problem-solvers
The job market for physicists is not a vast one. Three alumni who earned their doctorates at the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics at TU Dresden now work for a global company that is a considered to be a pioneer of remote working technology.
The brand enthusiast
During his studies in Business Management Ivo Reuter developed an emotional affinity for food products. This fascination has lasted for more than 25 years. Today, he is responsible for digitalization and customer service as manager at the Rotkäppchen-Mumm group.
From leading aircraft manufacturer to fashion startup
Karen Rauschenbach switched to logistics after her “Vordiplom” intermediate examination. The transport economist spent 16 years working for Airbus. An old denim suit is to blame for her setting up a sustainable business in Switzerland in 2018.
The roll-to-roll expert
Uwe Beier knew from an early age that he wanted to pursue a career related to mechanical engineering. At the age of 26, he started his own business, and he and his business ideas are now in demand around the world.
Life is reflected in the troops
Ariane Knechtel read a report about a police psychologist in school and the seeds were sown. She now works as a psychologist with the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces, and feels her Psychology degree laid an excellent foundation for her current role. Small wonder that she still has close ties to her former university.
Electronics engineer links international security systems
After finishing his schooling in Ethiopia with honors, Paulos Gorfu Abraha came to Dresden to study Electronics. After having held several high-level positions in Ethiopia, he now works at a Bavarian security company which operates worldwide.
My job is my hobby
Daniel Woithe works for Deutsche Bahn and ensures that processes ranging from food orders on ICE trains to greener driving become more digital. One focus of his work is IT security, an area that has fascinated him since his days as a student.
Queen of online courses
Back in her school days, Anja Lorenz regularly participated in Mathematical Olympiads and was always one of the few girls in her computer science classes. She loved computer games and 3D animated movies. Today, she works in the field of media computer science and is known as the “Queen of MOOC-Maker.”
Fascinated by computers and secure operating systems
Dr. Michael Hohmuth learned to program as a child. He studied Computer Science out of interest, but also because he wanted to stay in his hometown of Dresden. Nowadays, he manages the software company Kernkonzept.
Not a typical Vietnamese career path
Chemical engineer Dr. Phung Lan Huong is the Head of the External Affairs Office at Hanoi University. She is responsible for ensuring that cooperation with Germany – and therefore with TUD – continues to develop.
The vision: solar power from every roof
Alexander Melzer studied Industrial Engineering at TU Dresden. He went on to found a renewable energy startup. The goal was a company that would install a photovoltaic system on the roof of every house.
A leading politician with her feet on the ground
At 21, Katja Kipping was a Dresden city councilwoman, and at 34, she was elected chairwoman of Die Linke, a democratic-socialist party. The graduate of Slavic Studies could have seen herself becoming a professor. “But so far, politics has always called,” says the Dresden native.
A logistics expert on binational inland ports
Had the Berlin Wall not come down, Heiko Loroff might have been building machinery for the jewelry industry today. But he is pleased that he had to change his subject back then. The urban logistics engineer is responsible for inland ports in Saxony and the Czech Republic.
Ezé makes dreams come true
Distinguished graduate in German Studies, passionate musician, and bridge-builder between cultures. Ezchial Wendtoin Nikiema from Burkina Faso is also one of the TU Dresden DAAD award winners. His current project is building a school in Burkina Faso.
A professor with two jobs and three children
Annikka Zurwehme decided to study Business Education at TU Dresden. For the native of Hesse, heading to eastern Germany was exciting, and she was to remain in Saxony for a long while. Today, she lives in her home region teaching at a university and running an advisory office for schools and continuing education institutions on management issues.
“You can make things happen that just aren’t possible in the same way in Germany”
Setting up banks in Africa? Working with cocoa farmers in Asia on saving money? Talking about business with indigenous Mayan women’s groups in Latin America? How do you get a job like that? Mostly through happy coincidence, according to economist Dirk Lebe.
From lecturer in the nursery to communications researcher
Communications researcher Dr. Doreen Reifegerste explores how public health information can be communicated in an understandable way. This is why she knows why well-intentioned prevention tips are often useless, and how to really get messages across.
Doctors with heart, mind and courage
As early as their days of studying Medicine, Marie Downar and Oxana Atmann questioned commonly entrenched ideas and dared to venture into new territory. Together with the national non-profit organization Medizin und Menschlichkeit, they organized the symposium ZUKUNFT:MEDIZIN in Dresden.
Committed to educational equity – now in Saxony, too
For ten years now, the non-profit Teach First has actively supported children and youth in schools. Teresa Wilmes studied International Relations and was a Teach First fellow at a school affected by educational inequity.
From app developer to Teach First Deutschland fellow
Until a few months ago, Michael Schiefer programmed software for energy technology. The mechanical engineer was good at his job, but sometimes he felt the lack of a deeper meaning to his work. A birthday card from his mother changed everything.
Dancer, lieutenant, designer and boss
Ask about business success stories in Dresden beyond the large corporates that moved in post-reunification, and one name will come up again and again: Xenon. The special-purpose machinery manufacturer is now a key player in factory automation. Co-founder Hartmut Freitag still benefits to this day from his Precision Instrument Engineering Studies.
Giving a voice to the youngest
She would surely have made a good doctor. Linguist Anne Müller-Schuchardt’s current job is a daily source of happiness to her, for it combines communication and medicine. She is in charge of press and public relations for the Deutsche Stiftung Kranke Neugeborene (DSKN) – the German foundation for sick newborns.
“Unpopular, but more socially just” – an award-winning TUD doctorate
Dr. Thilo Becker conducted research for many years at TUD’s Chair of Transport Ecology. In June 2017, his dissertation was awarded the first “BUND-Forschungspreis” (Friends of the Earth Germany research prize).
Public health: a universal mission
Even before graduating from high school, Dr. Peggy Looks knew that she wanted to go into social research. For a while now, the doctor of sociology has been involved in the Dresden “Healthy Cities” project as a WHO representative.
A small outbreak every day
Andreas Kurth learned how to work with communication technology before he started his degree at TU Dresden. Now, those skills are helping the doctor of biology to set up a high-containment laboratory. His research interest, however, is in dangerous pathogens. And bats.
Committed to children and student mothers
Monif Alhourani, 1986 graduate of Civil Engineering, donated 4000 euros to TU Dresden to make the “CampusKISTE” project reality. He later came to visit this playground.
In the thick of it
As a child growing up in Görlitz, Kai Kranich imagined setting up museums. Later, he studied Politics and History. And although he has since turned his back on research and academia, he is still helping to write contemporary history. He has even received an award for it.
From Dresden to Down Under with a mechanical engineering degree
Senior ambassador Rolf Kelm is raising TUD’s profile in Austrlia. He would like more young graduates to join the network.
A political scientist as mediator between north, south, east and west
Regional ambassador and graduate of Political Science Tasos Costeas would like to bring the DRESDEN-concept exhibition to his home country of Cyprus and provide students with the information they need to study abroad.
A traffic engineer making transatlantic connections
Regional ambassador Rahel Desalegne from North America seeks to establish academic connections between the University of Wisconsin and TUD.
A contractor who wants to build university partnerships
Regional ambassador Felix del Rosario promotes TU Dresden to young people from his home country of Ecuador. He provides information on Master’s degree programs to students and researchers.
An advocate for the German language
As a regional ambassador, Thi Thu Thao Nguyen would like to encourage more pupils in Vietnam to study at TUD. Her position at the Olympia School Hanoi helps her in this regard.
A doctor of biology on a promotional tour
Dr. Sefirin Djiogue would like to organize a “TUD Promotion Day” at his university in Cameroon.
Around the world and back
In 1998, Hongliang Li returned to Wuhan with a Mechanical Engineering degree in his pocket. Now, he’s back in Dresden to learn more about vehicle safety and traffic accident research.
From Dresden out into the wide world and back
The International Office helps promote interaction between international and German students. Linguist Maria Völzer organizes special events to this end. Her way (back) to TU Dresden was many thousands of kilometers long.
Rediscovering the old campus
If, on a Saturday afternoon on the TU Dresden campus, you come across a large crowd who don’t quite fit the normal student age demographics warmly greeting each other, Dr. Günter Kieb is certainly not far away. Campus tours are a firm fixture on the program for the economist.
On the road with “Carl und Carla”
Five students and a Volkswagen EuroVan. This is how “Carl und Carla” started out – a new company that rents vehicles with charm. One of the founders is Mechanical Engineering graduate Richard Vetter.
A few questions for a former HFV student
Today, Kerstin Wegener is a professor of Tourism Management, but her roots are at the former Hochschule für Verkehrswesen (University of Transportation) in Dresden. She decided to study the Economics of Tourism in the 1980s – a highly coveted but niche subject. She explains ...
A few questions for a former PH student
Media educator Andreas Edhofer studied at the former Pädagogische Hochschule (College of Education) in Dresden. For many years, he was a successful self-employed manager for a wide variety of educational projects. Today he is employed as director of Victim Support in Saxony (Opferhilfe Sachsen e.V.). He reflects on his studies in a time of upheaval ...
A MedAk alumnus shares his story
Gottfried Wozel – professor, alumnus and “co-founder” of the Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine – is one of people who studied at the old Medizinische Akademie (Academy of Medicine) and also worked there for many years. In the 1990s, he served on the founding commission of the new Faculty of Medicine.
The guardian of digital knowledge
Though a native of Chemnitz, Simone Georgi always knew that she wanted to study at TU Dresden; the only question was what. Today, the communications expert heads the digital library at the SLUB (the Saxon State and University Library Dresden).
The “Traumschmelze” man
André Eckardt is the director of the German Institute for Animated Film. He is one of the people responsible for the exhibition “Traumschmelze – Der deutsche Zeichenanimationsfilm 1930–1950.” His journey began with a degree in English and American Studies.
From Master’s degree to exhibition director
Fresh out of university with a Master’s in Art History and already on the staff of a high-profile art festival. Moritz Stange is deputy artistic director of the international contemporary art exhibition Ostrale.
Christmastime is fairy-tale time
At Christmastime, Kirsten Balbig can be found on the “fairy-tale stage” at Yenidze. The linguist and musicologist is the only person in Dresden to combine theater, music, singing and dancing in a cross-genre stage program.
250 meters above sea level
Materials engineer Thomas Zwieg has coated thick bridge cables many meters above the sea. Today, he works as a product developer for delicate instrument stings. In his interview, he bridges the gap between these subject areas.
Meet the regional ambassadors: How experience becomes expertise
Biologist Germain Jean Magloire Ketcha Wanda from Cameroon studies the therapeutic effects and medicinal uses of plants. He wants to share his experience as a doctoral student at TU Dresden – as a regional ambassador.
Meet the regional ambassadors: Materials engineers reaching for the stars
Falk Rosenlöcher didn’t just reach for the stars as an amateur astronomer. Today, the materials engineer is a branch manager at Brunel and a TUD regional ambassador.
Meet the regional ambassadors: Addicted to London
“London can be addictive,” says Nikolai Press. He should know. The English specialist and historian has lived there for twelve years. He has nonetheless remained loyal to his alma mater and remains active as a regional ambassador.
A cycling all-rounder working for the climate
Spruce something up, preserve something beautiful, redefine it. Ina Helzig envisioned her future as a carpenter and furniture restorer. Her goals remained to use, enhance, and alter what is already available. Today, the Geography alumna is head of the Dresden Climate Protection Office.
Environmentally friendly energy for everyone
Jens Wagner studied Industrial Engineering at TU Dresden, specializing in Energy and Environmental Technology. Together with David Saige, he founded “jeda energie,” a purely green electricity provider.
The why factor
Anja Gena studied a rather unusual combination of subjects. Today, the sociologist heads a concert and events agency in Dresden. And she has invented a scavenger hunt called “Stadt(Ver-)Führung.”
Opening the language treasure trove
Before completing her degree in Linguistics, Maria R. Elizondo had already studied to become a high school teacher of German and Spanish. Today, she is an educational trainer for intercultural adult education in Latin America.
Building bridges
After training as an educator, Anja Centeno García went on to manage a project for street children in Nicaragua. The Linguist and Cultural Studies graduate now works as a freelance lecturer and communications coach.
Private gardens and highway landscaping
The fact that Dr. Grit Heinrich ended up studying Landscape Architecture was thanks to family inspiration. Even if she is one of the few landscape architects with a doctorate, she believes that “the way you make a name for yourself is through your work.”
Architect and chamber president
Alf Furkert comes from a family of master builders in Dresden. He knew from an early age what career he wanted to pursue. And his hypothesis proved correct during his Architecture studies. Today, he is also the president of the Architektenkammer Sachsen, Saxony’s Chamber of Architects.
Co-initiator of the Alumni Ball
Andreas Mönch was born into a family of artists. His path to studying Information Systems Engineering and his current profession was anything but straightforward. What he learned during his studies laid the groundwork for him to found the company Saxonia Systems AG.
Psychologist by process of elimination
Grit Reimann made the decision to study late in life. By the age of 23, she already had two children and decided to study Psychology “by a process of elimination.” Today, the doctor of psychology is in demand across Germany, and not just as a sports psychologist.
A wanderer between two worlds: From the Florence of the Elbe to Florence
Katrin Wegener studied art education and German studies on the high school teacher training program. Erasmus took her to Florance, Italy. That’s where she works today – as a promoter, art dealer and journalist.
From civil engineer to author
A career advisor once encouraged Jens Wonneberger to study Civil Engineering. But then he was drawn to writing. Today, he is an award-winning author – but he has also put his construction skills to use.
Archives and guided tours
Research is not dry. Archives even less so. The Art Historian Katja Lindenau wrote her doctoral dissertation on beer and brewing. Today, she still sometimes lets people experience the results of her research.
“At first, I felt like I was on another planet”
María Teresa Ponce studied at TUD in the 1980s as one of 36 Nicaraguan students, pursuing a degree in Technical Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics. Now she manages a thermal power station in her home country.
From the architect’s drawing board to the artist’s workshop
After an open day at TU Dresden, Janet Schlüßler knew she wanted to study Landscape Architecture. She has since launched her own company – in a completely different industry.
A former construction site manager with the heart of an artist
Marion Bogda studied Technical Facilities Management and specialized in heating, ventilation and plumbing. After many years as a project engineer and site manager, she set up her own business – as a jewelry gallery owner.
A true love of insects
Biology professor Bert Kohlmann has taught at EARTH University in Costa Rica for 18 years. He is in demand worldwide as an expert. Not just on beetles – but he likes them the best.
Paper and pencil is all you need
This Iranian-Austrian artist is well-known today for his monumental panoramic images. He wanted to be an artist since he was a kid, but Yadegar Asisi’s path began with a degree in Architecture.
Much more than the designer of the “Erotic Angel”
English specialist Dr. Sylva-Michéle Sternkopf heads an international advertising and translation agency in the Ore Mountains. The Sternkopf “Erotic Angels” came about more or less by chance, but they have been met with great success.
From chance hit to bullseye
She trained to be a nurse, studied Political Science and was elected head of the Dresden SPD party in January 2008. For Sabine Friedel, the line between hobbies and politics is blurred. Her vision is to join City Hall in 2015.
From dairy farming to makeup artist
Kerstin Fiedler frequently had to go with the flow. She wanted to be a biology and chemistry teacher, but she didn’t get the desired spot at university, so she studied Food Engineering. Today, she owns a successful holistic care and styling company called “Wohlfühlwelt” in Dresden Neustadt.
The right combination of subjects
According to Klara Töpfer, Geodesy is a good mix of mathematics and geosciences. She is now the director of the City of Dresden’s Office for Geodata and Land Registry.
On the move – with the “Lössnitzdackel” or mountain railway
“Auf Achse” (“On the move”) is one of the programs offered by Business Management graduate Gabriele Clauss’ company Oberelbe Tours for exploring Saxony in out-of-the-ordinary ways.
Start early ...
“It was a time of euphoria. New chairs and new research fields were being established, and new professors were arriving,” says Jan Münchhoff, describing the period after the fall of the Berlin Wall – the period when he was studying Automobile Engineering at the Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering.
The “ice cream man” of the German soccer league
Michael Balzer graduated with a degree in Food Engineering and started a traineeship in 1990 at Unilever. Today, he is a respected and competent manager in Hamburg.
HR manager Pilz is professionalizing personnel administration
Dietmar Pilz, graduate of Labor Engineering, is HR manager at BGH Edelstahlwerke Freital GmbH. The company’s 450 employees specialize in the production of 800 different types of special steel.
From mechanical engineer to winemaker
Klaus Zimmerling studied Mechanical Engineering and has been making wine under strict rules of organic production since 1992. He isn't concerned with distinctions, preferring to sell his product as Landwein. No matter – famed wine expert Hugh Johnson has attested to the excellence of these high-quality wines.