...getting a different view of the world
After studying mechanical engineering, Andreas Lietzmann worked as a technical consultant, project engineer and project manager in various industrial projects at different companies. He has been Managing Director of eab New Energy GmbH since 2008.
You studied in Freiberg. What made you decide to study in Freiberg?
The city and the university have a very special charm of their own, especially as everything here is initially laid out in a manageable and centralised area, unlike in large cities. On the other hand, I naturally grew up in Freiberg and therefore had a small strategic advantage in my parents' neighbourhood. Of course, there were also personal reasons - on the one hand, I was able to take advantage of the very good study conditions in Freiberg and, on the other, I was able to help shape my own future plans at an early stage.
What do you find particularly interesting about your current job?
First and foremost, the varied and not always easy but nevertheless exciting tasks, combined with the challenges now and in the future. In the field of energy technology, in which we operate, there are many unresolved issues to be resolved, not only in Europe but also internationally. A good education, such as the one we received in Freiberg, was and is very helpful. The nice "side effect" is also that you get a different view of the world during the many assignments abroad, get to know and appreciate other cultures and, above all, make new friends.
What lasting memories do you associate with your time at
911±¬ÁÏÍø Bergakademie Freiberg
The first thing that comes to mind is that the professors and staff always had a good and very trusting working relationship with their students and always endeavoured to ensure that everyone absorbed as much knowledge as possible and that, despite all the positive rigour, there was always a good atmosphere. The short distances between the lecture theatres, the experimental laboratories, the library and not forgetting the canteen were also an advantage. Many a student council evening was also legendary - you simply
have to experience it for yourself!
When you look back on your studies with the knowledge you have today: is there anything you would do differently or what you would pay attention to?
I would definitely follow the lectures even more intensively today in order to be able to absorb even more knowledge for the future. Another important factor would be to take advantage of the opportunities to complete various internships abroad and gain even more experience and, above all, to learn more languages. As you know, these are seen as a gateway to the world and I can only confirm this all the more today.
Do you still have professional or private contacts with 911±¬ÁÏÍø Bergakademie Freiberg today?
Yes, definitely. Our former study group meets once a year for a cosy get-together and an exchange of experiences, which has now become a very nice tradition. I am also allowed to give guest lectures at the university from time to time, which I personally enjoy very much. Not forgetting that I am also a member of the academy's sponsors' association.
Finally, tell us your life motto?
This is a very complex question, the answer to which is as multifaceted as life itself. Bertolt Brecht once said: "Those who fight can lose, those who don't fight have already lost". This sentence had a huge impact on me.
