What are your responsibilities at Xella? 

I work in the Product and Process Research department at T&F under the direction of Dr Berit Straube. I am currently supervising two projects at the Brück site: 
The aim of the first project is to develop a product with a special combination of compressive strength and thermal conductivity, which is to be produced using conventional raw materials so that no additional investment is required in the plants. 
The second project focuses on saving energy in the production of aerated concrete through modified autoclaving. 
My day-to-day work is varied: I plan experiments, evaluate data and regularly visit the technical center. Together with the technical center staff, I supervise small- and large-scale experiments there, measuring parameters such as slump or rising height to check the viscosity of the autoclaved aerated concrete and monitoring the foaming process. 

Could you give us a brief insight into your career so far?

After school, I could imagine doing many things, from inland waterway transport to photography. In the end, I studied ceramics, glass, and building materials technology at the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg. The fact that my parents are both civil engineers certainly had an influence (laughs). But I find building materials very interesting in general because they have a wide range of applications, not only in the construction of buildings, but also in the creative sector, for example in the manufacture of decorative objects. 

During my studies, I specialized more in ceramics and building materials technology, with a particular focus on high-temperature materials and the manufacture and use of concrete. Autoclaved aerated concrete wasn't really a thing back then; I only got to know it at Xella. My internship semester here at T&F in 2023/2024 was my first contact with the building material and the team, and shortly before graduating, I was asked if I could imagine joining as a project manager – it was a perfect fit for me. 

Does sustainability play a role in your work? 

Absolutely. As part of my student research project, I dealt with energy savings in autoclaved aerated concrete production. The topic is more relevant than ever, and I continue to work on it today. My goal is to save energy and conserve resources by using alternative raw materials and modifying production processes, all while ensuring product quality. If we succeed, it will be a significant contribution to Xella's sustainability goals. 

What is your experience with Xella? What is important to you in your working environment?

I felt very comfortable at T&F during my internship. There is great team spirit here! My colleagues and I collaborate in a friendly, open manner characterized by mutual respect. Many of my colleagues have years of experience, from which I benefit enormously as a young professional. Additionally, product and process research offers me exactly the right mix of theory and practice that makes my job so fulfilling. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I'm very creative in my spare time. For example, I enjoy photography, crafts, and decorating. One of my passions is designing decorative objects, such as table arrangements and wall decorations. I use a variety of materials, including casting powder, tree slices, modeling clay, and paper. Building materials are also ideal for creative projects. 
Music also plays an important role in my life. I have played the violin since childhood. Currently, however, I only play it on special occasions.