STIWA Group promotes internal development. Maximilian Resch’s example shows how a career change or advancement can work. In the interview, he provides insight into his career path, from product development at STITECH to Engineering at STIWA Automation.
The Engineering Department at STIWA Automation is responsible for developing cost-effective automation projects. Based on the needs of the customers, tailored automation strategies and plant concepts are developed. It is a highly responsible profession that requires the highest level of technical expertise but, more importantly, a deep understanding of the processes, technologies, and methods across the entire corporate group. Therefore, a direct entry into this profession is nearly impossible at STIWA. For this reason, the classic career path into Engineering is specifically promoted internally. In the following interview, Maximilian Resch shares how his career at STIWA began and how he successfully transitioned into the Engineering Department.
Dear Max, how did you come to work at STIWA?
I had already gained several years of practical experience as a project manager and designer at various plant manufacturers in the region. STIWA enjoys an excellent reputation as an employer. It is known for providing excellent professional and international development opportunities within the company. That’s why I applied for the advertised position as a designer.
How was the start at STIWA?
I worked as a designer in product development for two years before moving into the Process and Technology department, specifically focusing on customer process development. Here, I was responsible for prototype development in the furniture industry division for three years.
What motivated you to seek a new professional challenge?
After a certain period, you realize where your true strengths lie, and for me, that’s in planning. We have a very open communication style, so it was no problem to discuss this with my supervisor. STIWA regularly posts new internal positions that offer employees attractive job opportunities to further develop within the group, either domestically or internationally. I really appreciate these opportunities. My current position in the Engineering Department was posted on the internal communication platform COYOU.
You applied for the position. What was required for this?
I expressed my interest to the HR department and had an initial interview with the head of Engineering. Our expectations matched well on both sides. As a transition and preparation for the new department, I still had to complete the company’s internal "Basic Plant Engineering Training" — a crucial qualification, as I can now confirm.
What responsibilities do you now cover in Engineering?
I handle specific customer inquiries, which are developed technically up to a certain point, calculated, and then offered. I can apply the knowledge I’ve gained over the past few years and use my strengths in planning directly.
Sounds fulfilling! And one final question: What do you particularly appreciate about your work or your employer?
I appreciate that STIWA is a very socially responsible company, that our highly efficient team works well together, and that my tasks are challenging but exciting... In summary, I can honestly say that I truly enjoy going to work every day.
About the person:
Maximilian Resch is 38 years old. He has worked at STIWA for six years, two of them at STITECH, three in the Process and Technology department, and one in the Engineering department at STIWA Automation. He studied mechanical engineering with a focus on mechatronics at FH Mittweida while working, and he graduated with a DI (FH) degree.
