TEST

 

Please briefly introduce yourself: What is your name? In which department and at which site do you work? What is your job title?

My name is Verena Haderer and I have been working in the production department at the factory in Gmünd for the past three and a half years. This year I became the production manager for starch derivatives.

Why did you decide to work in a technical profession?

After finishing my mandatory schooling, I visited a technical college by chance during an open-day event and noticed relatively quickly that I was very interested in technical processes, the variety of options and the expertise that you get as a result of a technical education. While at this college I really enjoyed working in the laboratory and developed a fascination for the area of chemistry. That’s why I decided to study technical chemistry at university to find out more about how the world works at a molecular level.

Which aspects of your everyday working life in a technical profession interest you most?

What I appreciate most is the diversity and variety of everyday work. There are always new issues and problems to be solved. Although this can sometimes be tedious, I am always really delighted when we have found solutions which, in the best case, are also sustainable solutions.

Can you share with us a tip why women should decide to work in a technical position?

The most important aspect is not to let things get you down or discourage you. I often notice that I am partially underestimated in my day-to-day work. This results in a tendency not to give yourself enough credit in a male-dominated environment. I think the most important thing is to be aware of this, to actively work on rectifying it and to believe in yourself.

In addition, we women also need to learn from each other, to build networks and work together instead of competing against each other. I am delighted that this all works so well in my professional environment and that the number of women in leadership positions is constantly increasing at AGRANA.