Graduates Testimonials

Nationality: USA
AMM graduation: 2021
Current employer: KTM AG

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favorite master´s program?
It was really a few reasons. The most important was the study curriculum. Before I found this program, I had already interviewed with a few OEMs in the mobility sector. The questions during these interviews always included topics along the lines of how to run a project successfully, especially with respect to the company’s position and the market as a whole. AMM offered me the chance to fill a gap in my knowledge base within an engineering masters, instead of having to complete a business-oriented MBA program. Another huge plus is the way AMM supports gaining work experience by giving students two days a week without classes. The last reason, while not AMM specific, is the location of the university itself. Living so close to the Alps, the lake region of Austria, and along the main train line between Munich and Vienna has made balancing out studies and travelling pretty easy.

What makes studying AMM so special?
One of the most outstanding characteristics of AMM is how international this program is. In my cohort I had the opportunity to study with engineers from 15 countries. Furthermore, the program prepares you for working in such a mixed environment through a series of intercultural communication classes in the first three semesters.
The second thing that made AMM special is how the program forms a confluence of connections to the automotive industry through its teachers, partner companies, and organized events. It takes one of the main ideas of the Fachhochschule system, that advanced education and industry should be intertwined, and absolutely runs with it. In my two internships and masters thesis I’ve worked on, discussed, or at least been exposed to almost every topic I studied in this program. A 90% overlap speaks volumes to the amount of constructive dialogue constantly taking place between the surrounding automotive industry and the AMM faculty.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I completed my first project at the Linz Center of Mechatronics, where I customized and integrated an open source automated driving simulator into a knowledge engine. My project provided an automated framework for testing autonomous driving software against the current European driving safety standards for such vehicles.
My second project was with KTM Motorcycle, working in the department of Human Machine Interfaces. The company had interest in further developing my topic and it grew into a subsequent Masters Thesis which was truly mechatronics focused, involving multiple bike sensors, software development, prototyping, and model based engineering.

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I’m currently working at KTM as a Test Engineer, with a focus on Hardware in the Loop testing of motorbike ECUs.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Do your homework and network with companies in the first semester. Take the time to look at the small engineering firms of Upper Austria. There are many with industry expertise and great opportunities. If you find a company with a specialization you like, try and court them for a company project in your second and third semesters. Austria has an incredibly accommodating work environment for English speakers, but even basic German skills and a motivation to improve them will open many doors at the university, in the workplace, and in the country as a whole. Take the time to pursue proficiency.

Nationality: Germany
AMM graduation: 2021
Current employer: KTM AG

Why did you choose Automotive Mechatronics and Management as your favorite master’s program?
After my Bachelor Studies I knew that I wanted a Master program which offers the possibility to work part time. This is not only possible but also supported by AMM. The strong partnership with Industry-leading mobility companies, and the time built into our schedule for working made the decision for AMM easy.

What makes studying AMM so special?
For me there are two important aspects. The first one is the high variety of subjects. Coming from Mechanical Engineering, the insights into electronics and management are broadening my horizon. But even more important is the class group itself. Although we were only 16 students in my year, every continent was represented. The advantage of experiencing all those different people is highly valuable. And even in complicated times like we experienced with COVID 19, classmates were helping each other where necessary. Speaking of COVID, there is one extra point to add. The school managed to switch to online courses nearly immediately. This means we could finish our studies without delay.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I applied to KTM, one of the leading motorcycle OEMs of Europe, at the same time as I applied for AMM and luckily was accepted for both. Therefore I conducted my two company projects as well as my master thesis at KTM. For the thesis I transferred to another group. 

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I’m still at KTM working in the same group where I completed my thesis, which is responsible for electronic control systems. In this group I’m one of the persons responsible for function development. This means I take care of ongoing improvement for established functions like the ABS and implementing new functions that make riding more comfortable or safer.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Don’t be afraid of the lectures being taught in English. Studying technical topics in another language was my biggest fear, but actually you become used to it really quickly and the professors are considerate of everybody.

Nationality: Germany
AMM graduation: 2020
Current employer: KTM AG

Why did you choose Automotive Mechatronics and Management as your favorite master’s programme?
First of all the idea to work within a company while studying is in my opinion pretty attractive. You get practical and theoretical experience as well as knowledge in an intensive way together and you can see parallelisms in between. As I studied electrical engineering I became more interested in electrical drives and want to be part of their way in the automotive industry. This master’s program combines also technical theory and management topics to get an overview about important aspects of the company’s everday life.
 
What makes studying AMM so special?
One special aspect is to be part of a small group from different countries. All people are highly motivated and helping each other to get through our studies. Another aspect I appreciated is that all AMM-Students getting interesting views inside the companies, including examples directly out of R&D departments. Visiting different manufacturing and assembling areas was one of the first highlights in our study program.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I was lucky to work for different departments at KTM. I had an insight into the electronics development, as well as the suspension support department. 

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?'
I continued to work for KTM in the Research and Development department for Sensors and Actuators.  I am responsible for the development of a new handlebar switch, which is requiring a lot of project management, but also developing an own prototype and testing are part of my work.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Enjoy the study program and the beautiful landscape of Austria :) There are a lot of great people you can meet around here. If you want to make sure that you are well prepared, I would recommend to practice your German skills. And, don't be afraid to try new things.

Nationality: Brazil
AMM graduation: 2020
Current employer: Linz Center of Mechatronics

Why did you choose Automotive Mechatronics and Management as your favorite master’s program?
As I was close to finishing my bachelor’s degree in Control and Automation Engineering, I had decided that I would like to pursue further education (Master’s degree). Therefore, after searching for master’s degrees in different places, I was able to encounter AMM. The AMM course seemed a great match with the skills that I had already acquired as well as it offered a curriculum which matched my expectation about what I would like to learn. Moreover, the degree allows students to participate in projects with companies which was another fundamental reason to make me choose AMM. Finally, I had seen that the Austrian market/economy, and more precisely the market in Upper-Austria would fit with my qualifications.

What makes studying AMM so special?
In my opinion AMM curriculum offers the students a great opportunity to get to know pivotal aspects that are present in the automotive industry with regards to its theoretical and practical aspects. Moreover, as I student I had the opportunity to go on tours and to visit different companies in the region. Finally, the course staff and dean are eager to develop the course and support the students which is, in my opinion, an extremely valuable characteristic.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I have done all the projects along with the Linz Center of Mechatronics (LCM).

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I have worked at LCM as R&D Engineer.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Take advantage of these amazing opportunity that you have on your hands. AMM allows students to learn theory from top notch professors e.g. professors which work at world-renown companies as well as to practice what they have learned in labs and in projects alongside companies.

Nationality: United States of America
AMM graduation: 2019
Current employer: PACCAR

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favorite master´s program?
I have always had a passion for automotive technology and learning about the different kinds that are being developed. I became interested in Mechatronics after understanding the potential of combining sensors and actuators through control systems and I gained management interest through my experience as a leader in academic club activities. When I heard about AMM, I knew it would be a great fit for me because it combined all three of these interests into one program. An additional bonus that stood out to me was the ability to gain work experience through the program while working on my master’s thesis.

What makes studying AMM so special?
AMM is special because it is a dual program, allowing the student to study automotive technology and management information as well as working with a company on projects to gain industry experience. Studying AMM covers the automotive basics and dives into the future of automotive technology, focusing on advanced driver assistance systems and electrification of the powertrain. Learning about these two topics made me excited for the future of automotive engineering. Using this information in daily work with a company validates the importance of this new technology going forward.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I worked with Miba to complete my semester projects and master thesis. I first started in the Industrial Engineering department, working on dynamic system modeling to improve system performance and reduce faults within the final products. From there I transferred to Miba Frictec, where I worked in the R&D department. I worked on testing and analyzing friction disc products for Frictec to determine product properties for customer requirements. Creating a test matrix and analyzing large data sets to conclude on the product properties was the basis for my master’s thesis.

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I am now working for PACCAR in their Kenworth truck Division. PACCAR is a global truck company with Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF as their major product divisions. I am a part of the Vehicle Integration team as a Vehicle Function Definition Engineer. My responsibilities are to define and manage functional requirements for software systems within the next generation of trucks. My team is on the upper left corner of the V-cycle and we communicate with the software developers to ensure the final product meets the customer’s requests. The exciting part about my job is that we will be taking on function definition of new ADAS and electrification systems within the trucks.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
My advice to incoming students is to get involved in some extracurricular activity. Whether it is an academic project or student organization responsibility, having that extra activity makes you stand out amongst the rest of your colleagues and employers look for this. Extracurricular activities show that you go above the required work load of a student and that is beneficial to you and your future employer.

Nationality: Germany
AMM graduation: 2019
Current employer: KTM AG

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
The opportunity to work and study at the same time in an automotive company such current and important topics convinced me right away. I worked already before by master studies at KTM and studying “Automotive Mechatronics and Management” seemed the perfect fit to proceed my career at KTM and increase my automotive specific knowledge with my studies.After my successful graduation I can say that all my hopes and expectations were outmatched. 

What makes studying AMM so special?
It is great to have practical experiences on a weekly base where it is possible to apply the new learned knowledge gained during the theoretical days at the Fh. The companies are also getting some new inputs from the students due to all these different views and backgrounds of the “AMM” professors. The “AMM” professors usually have an interesting automotive background and most of the time still work at some important OEMs or suppliers. Due to this kind of professors, the practical point of view is also during the lectures omnipresent with up-to-date examples out of a daily life of an automotive engineer. Participating in the “Audi Autonomous Driving Cup 2018” was an amazing experience for our AMM-team, too. We got a great opportunity to learn in a practical manner about autonomous driving and gained specific knowledge in such a current topic having top-of-the-art equipment.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I worked during my studies at the KTM AG in the “engine simulation and component testing” department starting from the first semester.

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I still work at KTM and in the above mentioned department as a CFD engineer simulating motors and internal combustion engines.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Keep on going, although it will be though and stressful! Such a mix out of practical and theoretical experiences combined with a passionated head of studies is a real unique opportunity for everyone who wants to proceed a career in the automotive segment. Don’t be afraid to move to Austria to a smaller city like Wels or maybe to start working at a company you didn’t know before. All these hidden champions are the first important steps you take to achieve your personal goal of a great engineering career at an international automotive company.    

Nationality: New Zealand
AMM graduation: 2019
Current employer: Elektronische Fahrwerksysteme GmbH

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
Choosing the AMM program was easy as it would give me the opportunity to learn further about automotive mechatronics systems as well as a range of management subjects. After having completed my Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering, I was interested in focusing on the automotive industry. The biggest factor for choosing this program was the cooperation between leading companies within the automotive industry in the Upper Austria area and the AMM study program, and the fact that you are required to work in the industry at one of these partner companies while you study. This was something I was looking forward to.

What makes studying AMM so special?
Apart from working at a company for a part of the week, it is interesting having professionals from the automotive and engineering industry as lecturers for some courses. This can result in special insights as well as connections with companies. We also go on excursions to companies in the industry occasionally. Another aspect is having such an international learning environment with students from many different countries which can make your time here quite entertaining, as you'll meet a lot of interesting people.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
In the second and third semesters, I completed my company and R&D projects with Miba Sinter Austria GmbH. For my thesis, I completed my project with Elektronische Fahrwerksysteme GmbH (EFS).

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
After graduation, I will continue working for EFS as a developer in the virtual development department.
 
What advice would you give to incoming students?
There are many different opportunities available at the FH and in the Upper Austrian area, so my advice would be to spend some time and look into what's possible, whether it is work/company related or for fun. Also, while you could survive without it, learning German will definitely help especially when working at a company.

Nationality: India
AMM graduation: 2018
Current employer: KTM Technologies, Anif/Salzburg

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
We live in a world where technology is evolving exponentially faster than anyone could have predicted. As an engineer, it is important not only to keep up with this pace but also to build upon the theories and challenge your peers, so we can move closer to a perfectly synchronized civilization. I have chosen the AMM program because it resonates closely with my mechanical, electronics and automotive passion. The dimension of management gives me a new perspective of how businesses can run like clockwork through the midst of fuzzy and complex challenges. This course had the right balance to sculpt me into the engineer I am today and help me make a step towards a better future.

What makes studying AMM so special?
This course has been shaped by the vast automotive industries present in Austria. Tuned and polished by the faculty and students, it has grown to be one of the best branches in engineering. This course gives the students the ability to see the larger picture in any project. The faculty and administration are extremely supportive to feedbacks and value the student’s views. Personally, I find that the most special element is, that AMM continuously adapts to the changing industry needs.

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
BRP Rotax, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, KTM Sportcar.

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I am currently employed at KTM_Technologies as an Electrics, Electronics and Software Engineer. My main task is to develop electric motors to power the forthcoming electric future.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Take advantage of the time you have in the first semester and explore the country. Seize the different opportunities at the FH and get involved in the various groups. Never loose focus of why you chose to be an engineer.
Don’t work hard, work smart! :-)

AMM graduation: 2018
Current employer: BMW Motoren, Steyr

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
Studying AMM provides the best possible preparation for working as a professional in leading companies in the automotive industry. The combination of the theoretical knowledge taught during the lectures and the practical insights gained from projects which were carried out at partner companies provides a very unique and valuable skillset. That´s why I chose AMM as my favourite master´s programme and I am very proud and happy that I got the chance to experience those 2 years and finish the programme after all.

What makes studying AMM so special?
Studying AMM is very unique as it features a lot of diversity. The combination of studying and working paired with getting to know people from all around the world are features, which definetly won´t be offered by lots of other study programmes.
 
At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
•    Magna Powertrain Engineering Center Steyr
•    BMW Motoren Steyr

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
•    BMW Motoren Steyr as a development engineer for engine cooling systems and engine diagnostics

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Especially for incoming students a proper integration in small groups who work and study together is in my opinion crucial for successfully finishing the studies. From time to time you will need the support of a group to help each other out. I myself would probably not have been able to finish the studies without the support of my colleagues. Therefore I would recommend to socially integrate yourself in the group as it makes study life way more easy and enjoyable.

Nationality: South Africa
AMM graduation: 2018
Current employer: KTM AG, Mattighofen

Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
I completed my bachelors in Mechanical Engineering in South Africa, and having worked in the Automotive industry in both SA and Austria, it was a natural selection for me to choose the Automotive Mechatronics and Management Master’s degree and further my studies in Austria.

What makes studying AMM so special?
This study program was born from the desire of the AMM partner companies requiring multi-faceted engineers. The forward thinking AMM Professors answered their call by creating this unique dual master’s degree which combines automotive engineering techniques and management expertise with practice-oriented company projects.
This ensures that the graduates have a broad skillset and are capable of developing innovative solutions be it in the engineering or management departments as well as having the opportunity to gain Austrian work experience during the course of the studies.
Setting my sights on the Upper Austrian Automotive industry, I realised being part of the AMM team was the first significant step in which I had to take in order to succeed in my career plan.  

At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I completed my semester 2 project work within BRP Rotax, focusing on process engineering within the prototype department.
I then moved to Steyr Motors where I completed my 3rd semester project work which formed the basis for my master project and then went on to completed my Master thesis focusing on the development of diagnostics software for On-board diagnostics applications.  

Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
Upon graduating, I have finally achieved my target, and am now working for KTM – Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer.
I managed to continue in the topic of my master thesis work and am currently employed as an Application engineer focusing on OBD topics.

What advice would you give to incoming students?
Learn basic German, it will help in work and life in Austria!
Develop a target for yourself and don’t stop working until you have achieved it,
and then develop another ;-)