HOW DOES STUDYING AND WORKING AT WÖLFEL WORK, ALEXANDER GERAT?

Alexander Gerat was a working student at Wölfel for several years and has been supporting our Structural Dynamics team as a permanent engineer since July 2024. In this interview from his time as a working student, he shares his experiences, talks about opportunities for newcomers to the workforce, and much more about student life at Wölfel.

[Translate to English:] Alexander Gerat vor Firmengebäude in Höchberg

Listen to the entire interview in full length (only available in german)

How did you first join the company?

I studied Civil Engineering at THWS and Ms. Rapps was my tutor for Structural Engineering. During the winter break, I simply asked her about an internship.

What entry opportunities are there at Wölfel in general?

People often start with a thesis for a bachelor's or master's degree, or as part of a compulsory internship. Many engineering programs have a longer practical semester in the fifth term, which is particularly attractive. Aside from that, we always welcome unsolicited applications for working student positions.

Why did you ultimately decide on Wölfel?

For me, Wölfel was an exciting alternative to traditional statics. In civil engineering there are usually two directions – structural design for statics engineers or for construction management. Construction management didn't interest me, but structural design did and when I heard that dynamics were also part of it, I thought, yes, that's where I want to go.

How are students supported at Wölfel?

We receive thorough onboarding. In structural dynamics you initially work on familiar tasks such as mass calculations or CAD drawings. After that, the assignments gradually become more technically challenging depending on your interests and how you can contribute best. You’re never left alone – there’s always support available, especially when you have questions.

[Translate to English:] Alexander Gerat bei der Arbeit

How much project work are you involved in?

During the semester, I usually work one day per week. I am fully integrated into ongoing projects, creating sketches and plans, and I am part of the team.

[Translate to English:] Alexander Gerat mit Kollege

How well can you combine your studies with working at Wölfel?

Very well – that's a clear advantage. Working hours are highly flexible depending on your study workload. During exam periods, I just let the team know if I’m unavailable, and it works out perfectly.

What is the interaction like among students at Wölfel?

Within the departments, the exchange works very well. Across departments, we mostly meet at company events or for lunch together.

How does writing a thesis work at Wölfel?

If you’re joining us from outside, you can apply for advertised topics. If you already work at Wölfel, you have more flexibility and can incorporate your own interests. Then, together, you find a suitable approach to realize the topic.

Have you developed personally at Wölfel?

Yes, absolutely.

What advantages do students have at Wölfel?

Primarily, you see how things really are done in practice. Many of the business areas focus on niche topics which means you gain specialized knowledge you'd never get during your studies. If you want, you can also progress directly towards specific goals.