Automotive Mechatronics and Management
Master, Full Time
- Campus Wels
- Email sekretariat.amm@fh-wels.at
- Telephone +43 5 0804 43053
- Download info sheet Contact us
Graduates testimonials
Ashwin Thomas Mathew MSc
Nationality: India
AMM graduation: 2022
Current employer: Plastic Omnium New Energies
Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management“ as your favourite master´s programme?
Choosing Automotive Mechatronics and Management helped me to gain a
broad understanding of mechatronic product development in the Automotive
industry. Apart from this, the location of FH Wels at the centre of
Upper Austria opens doors to the high tech industry in the region. It
was my personal goap to see and experience first hand the cutting edge
development within the Automotive sector in Europe. AMM helped me to
only achieve that but also gain an internationally recognised degree.
What makes studying AMM so special?
The practice integrated curriculum helps you to work together with
several companies parallel to your studies and explore your interests in
different domains. This will also aid you in choosing your future
employer. The integration of business subjects and emphasis on
intercultural communication gives you a headstart in navigating the
corporate ladder as well as adjusting to international work
environments. The professors are receptive to feedback and it is
remarkable to see how much the programme has evolved over the years
since its inception.
At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
I carried out my second semester PRO2 with ZKW lighting systems on
developing Vehicle to Pedestrian Communication (V2P) concepts for
autonomous shuttles. In the third semester, I worked with Engineering
Software Steyr on developing and validating Computational Fluid Dynamics
(CFD) software to simulate industrial flows. Finally for my Master's
Thesis, I deepened my interests in mechatronic simulation by building
and validating a system level model for the air-supply sub system of a
hydrogen fuel cell system at Plastic Omnium New Energies.
Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
I decided to pursue my interests in fuel cell systems and accepted a
full-time position at Plastic Omnium New Energies as System Simulation
Engineer. Here, I work within the System Engineering team on applying
simulation methods to design, validate, optimise and innovate on
existing as well in-development fuel cell system architectures.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
- A solid grasp of German will not only make you more confident in
dealing with people in your private life but also be of immense help
professionally.
- If possible, target the area that you'd like to work in and build skills that would qualify you for this position.
- Make yourself visible on professional networking platforms and don't
be afraid to reach out to people in expressing your interest to work
with them.
- Do not be afraid to ask the professors for help or to voice your concerns.
- Over the course of the programme, you will change yourself in ways
that you'd never imagined to be possible. Therefore, whenever an
opportunity presents itself, put your best foot forward.
Amr Mousa Mohamed Mousa MSc
Nationality: Egypt
AMM graduation: 2021
Current employer: AVL List GmbH
Why did you choose „Automotive Mechatronics and Management “as your favorite master´s programme?
Having completed my bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering in
Egypt, I took considerable time to reflect on the right European MSc
program for me. The AMM program emerged as the perfect choice, not only
aligning seamlessly with my career goals but also offering distinctive
features. Its integration with top-tier industry companies was a
standout characteristic, offering invaluable opportunities for practical
experience and exceptional networking possibilities. The emphasis on
real-world projects within the program was another significant aspect
that appealed to me, as it went beyond traditional theoretical
education. This approach enabled me to apply my theoretical knowledge to
practical settings, honing my problem-solving abilities and sharpening
my overall skills, making the AMM program the ideal springboard for my
professional development.
What makes studying AMM so special?
The AMM program, with its blend of academic study and real-world
industry practice, perfectly aligns with passions for software and
machine learning. Its multidisciplinary curriculum bridges the gap
between technical and managerial skills, while its focus on rapidly
evolving technology trends fosters leadership abilities. The program
provides invaluable hands-on experience through internships and industry
projects, alongside technical excursions to companies. These visits
provide early exposure to real industrial problems and professional
networking opportunities, offering unique insights into complex system
analysis and enabling a seamless transition into the professional world.
With an enriching intercultural environment, supportive staff, and
value placed on student feedback, the learning dynamics are exceptional.
Coupled with an active social scene, the AMM program offers a
comprehensive and rewarding educational experience that equips students
to thrive in the automotive industry.
At which companies did you carry out your study immanent projects?
During my AMM journey, I undertook two significant projects that
profoundly enriched my professional capabilities. My team and I
identified the need for robust medical equipment to combat the
challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and co-founded "SPERO," a venture
cantered on designing and fabricating affordable portable automated
ventilators from local equipment available in the third countries
market. Thanks to the mentorship provided by the AMM program's faculty
and the coursework insights, this endeavour honed our engineering skills
and deepened our societal consciousness. It demonstrated the power of
engineering and entrepreneurship in making a tangible impact on society
during challenging times.
Furthermore, my thesis involved a
collaboration with AVL, a leading automotive industry player, where I
worked on developing a reinforcement learning energy management strategy
for hybrid vehicles. This rewarding experience resulted in a published
paper in the Elsevier JESTECH journal and a commercial patent.
Additionally, it earned me the second place in the FH Innovation Award
2023, a testament to the transformative influence of the AMM program and
its crucial role in steering my trajectory towards professional
success.
Which company have you worked for since graduation and in which function?
Since graduation, I have been employed at AVL as an AI Research and
Development Engineer. In this role, my primary responsibility has been
to advance AI-based control systems technology for broader applications
in the automotive industry. My tasks involve using my theoretical
knowledge, conducting comprehensive analyses, implementing advanced
modeling and simulation techniques, and performing experimental
validations to enhance the intelligence of future road vehicles.
I
was recently promoted to the role of Senior Researcher and Project Lead.
This new position provides me with a broader view of project
management, team leadership, and stakeholder communication. I've gained
invaluable experience navigating the intricacies of industrial
collaborations, striking a balance between technical requirements and
business objectives.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Your time in this program can be transformative, make the most of it as
you embark on your own journey. Stay motivated, remain open to learning
and growth, and maintain a strong sense of purpose. I encourage you to
embrace the supportive and welcoming Austrian community. Take the time
to immerse yourself in the local culture. The captivating landscapes and
modern dynamism of Austria provide a unique and inspiring backdrop for
your studies. Let the environment fuel your innovative spirit and drive
you to push boundaries.
Take this opportunity to absorb as much
experience as possible. Engage actively, this hands-on approach will
complement your theoretical learning and give you a well-rounded
understanding of the automotive industry.
Connor Samuel Pettit MSc
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.
Tamara Ricarda Schmidt MSc
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.
Somani Dhruv, India
Why did you choose Automotive Mechatronics and Management as your favorite master’s program?
I've always been fascinated by vehicles, technology, performance, and a variety of other topics since I was a child. After finishing my bachelor's degree, I wanted to pursue a master's degree in the automotive field. I had to broaden my understanding in Electrical and Electronics disciplines because I came from a mechanical background. For this, AMM combines the best of both worlds, namely mechanical and electrical/electronics. The themes provide a solid foundation for mechatronics and are backed up by management topics. Having said that, the Campus Wels also has a lot of engagement with businesses from all across the region.
What makes studying AMM so special?
At first glance, it appears that a course might contain so many technical and managerial courses in one. However, the integration is fantastic, much to my surprise. That is what distinguishes AMM from other options. The program offers a good mix of theory and practice, allowing students to advance to the professional world. Collaboration with industries is another area of expertise for AMM. Because many lecturers are industry professionals, it is quite beneficial to gain industry perspectives.
What makes living in Upper Austria so special?
Austria is a lovely country in general, and Upper Austria's scenery are no exception. In Upper Austria, there are numerous locations to visit that are not far from the University. The regions to visit in Austria include Hallstatt, Wein, Salzburg, and other tiny lakes. Because it is located in the heart of Europe, it is also possible to go to neighbouring nations.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Prepare yourself to live life to the fullest. Explore the unknown, make new friends, meet new people, and extend your horizons. Keeping in consideration the university's schedule when making plans :).
What are your plans after graduation?
I'll see where the path takes me after graduation. There are no precise plans. I am willing to consider chances in Austria or elsewhere in Europe. And, without a doubt, I shall miss the amazing experiences I had at the University with Professors and other students.
Marco Russo, Germany
Why did you choose Automotive Mechatronics and Management as your favorite master’s program?
I chose AMM after finding out that it offers an interesting mixture between technical lectures and around a quarter of management lectures. In order to prepare myself best for the upcoming automotive future - which seems to be ever changing - I decided getting a solid base in mechatronics backed by management will be very useful. On top of that, the Campus Wels is located in a very vivid industrial area, where a large number of cooperations with the university can be found.
What makes studying AMM so special?
As pointed out above, the mixture between technical and management skills give it a diverse character. Furthermore, sharing the courses with students from all over the world creates an intercultural environment which does not cease to cause interest. The lecturers are from different environments as well, most of them teach in their free time from their jobs and offer very broad and current practical knowledge to us.
What makes living in Upper Austria so special?
Upper Austria amazes with its landscapes. One hour from Wels, which seems to be in flat area - it is not - you will find yourself sorrounded by mountains at a lakeshore. A discovery venture is never far away. Also Vienna is only a 2 h train ride from Wels.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Incoming students should prepare themselves to meet a lot of people and not miss out on making new friends! I found myself in excellent company from day 1.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduating I will see where life will lead me. No concrete plans yet, though I know for sure that I want to take part in shaping the future of mobility. Upper Austria offers great opportunities to get involved! And I will miss the times with the people from university at Wels, for sure!
Contact
EmailE sekretariat.amm@fh-wels.at
TelephoneT +43 5 0804 43053