The key component of the new talent initiative is an ‘AVL Class’ at TU Graz. This was officially established on 14th November 2018 when contracts were signed at Helmut List Hall. This joint networking and sponsorship platform will create added value for companies and students alike. Aims are the development of a stronger network of students and experts at AVL as well as an introduction to today’s corporate challenges. Master’s and PhD students of TU Graz who are working in AVL research projects can take part in the AVL class. Students who get involved in AVL-sponsored TU Graz competitive teams, like for instance the TU Graz Racing Team, are welcome to join the AVL class. Helmut List, CEO of AVL, explains: ‘In the extremely dynamic environment of the global automotive industry, AVL is constantly expanding its R&D activities in Austria. Only with comprehensively trained engineers will it be possible to find innovative solutions for the many challenges of the future. Our AVL class will build more bridges between the University and the company for the future.
TU Graz Rector Harald Kainz is also delighted with the new initiative and the opportunities which will be provided for young engineers: ‘The younger generation of engineers at TU Graz are integrated in a variety of AVL research projects. With this additional offer, our students will gain a direct insight into the structures and processes of a worldwide leading company, benefit from contacts and become even better prepared for their professions and careers in industry and business.’
Exclusive offer for students
The AVL class offers students exclusive opportunities to grapple with research cooperation with AVL and beyond with topics from industry and business, to look behind the scenes of the automotive industry and establish a worldwide network. The bandwidth of activities in the framework of the AVL class ranges from excursions to individual AVL subsidiaries, invitations to in-house corporate network meetings and fireside chats with the AVL management. In short, the AVL class will get exclusive access to the corporate culture and world of AVL and get to know management and experts of the company personally.
Christine Schichler, responsible for the coordination of the AVL class on behalf of TU Graz, is gladdened by the keen interest of TU Graz students: ‘Students value the advantages of networking and talent promotion very much. This is borne out by initial feedback and talks with them.’
AVL is the world’s biggest, independent company for the development, simulation and testing of propulsion systems (hybrid, combustion engines, transmission systems, electric motors, batteries and software) for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and large engines. AVL has a worldwide workforce of more than 9,500 employees. Its turnover in 2017 was 1.55 billion euros.
