How did you come to NOVUM back then?
I met Sören and Mandy long before NOVUM, back when I was still at Brennstoffzelle GmbH, a fuel cell development and sales company, around 2011 or 2012. We went our separate ways in October 2014 when I moved to Aehnelt & Braune Gaswarn- und Systemtechnik. In July 2015, Sören called me and asked if I could solder a few things for them. This initially resulted in a side job that lasted until December 2015. From then on, I was a permanent member of the NOVUM team, which was still very small at the time.
Looking back on your 10 years at NOVUM: What were the most memorable stages or milestones for you?
The day we took the first measurements on a moped battery was a very special moment. Equally memorable were the first EISlab devices (devices for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) in their finished blue housing, because they marked an important step in development.
Another milestone was the first test bench delivered. I also still remember the first EISlab prototype in its acrylic housing. These milestones represent the development from prototypes to market-ready solutions.
Which projects or tasks did you particularly enjoy working on, and why do they stick in your mind?
Actually, I enjoyed working on all the tasks. At the beginning, my field of activity ranged from building trade fair furniture and assembling printed circuit boards to manufacturing special connectors from copper sheet and hot glue. The move to Yenidze opened up completely new possibilities. The larger premises offered more space and better conditions, enabling us to further develop our working methods and expand numerous processes in a structured manner. During this time, our electronics warehouse was also set up, and I had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of materials and build individual pieces for trade fairs and presentations. In addition, the first EISlab was set up, where I was initially responsible for the physical construction. I particularly remember the EISblock and the final revisions to the EISlab, which I took on independently. Unfortunately, my biggest and last project, the ACMI system, will never be completed, but it would have been another real highlight in my CV. It was a fantastic time for me when we were simultaneously developing the test benches, completing the EISblocks and I was able to accompany the small-series production of the EISlabs.
How have your role and responsibilities evolved over time?
Originally, I was described as a “craftsman with advanced skills”. However, thanks to my experience, I effectively took over the management of the hardware division, while Ulrich remained the official team leader, and we complemented each other perfectly. Considering that I never went to university, this is a solid achievement for me personally, and something I am quite proud of.
What did you learn or take away from this time, both professionally and personally?
In short: an incredible amount.
Professionally, I have specialised heavily in measurement technology in recent years, particularly EIS and everything that goes with it. I have also been able to significantly expand my skills in the field of industrial design.
Thanks to the freedom I was given, for which I am very grateful to Sören and Ulrich, I was able to work beyond my original area of responsibility. This enabled me to build up new skills and later contribute them to NOVUM.
On a personal level, I found it exciting to observe the factors that determine whether a team works well together. Often, it is the little quirks or special strengths of individual people that make the difference when they work together.
When you think about the team and the corporate culture, what would you say defines NOVUM, and what advice would you give us for the future?
NOVUM has developed significantly over the years and has become a mature company. What particularly impresses me is the irrepressible pioneering spirit, the energy to break new ground, push boundaries and consciously do things differently from others with creativity.
This dynamic has motivated me to go far beyond my actual duties. My advice would be to continue to nurture this special team culture and to always create space for joint creativity and cohesion, because that is exactly what makes a strong team.
