Women in Tech
Women in Tech: Exceptional Opportunities for Growth
Karin's Career at NOFFZ Technologies
Electrical Engineer
In our Women in Tech campaign, we showcase remarkable stories of NOFFZ female employees who have forged their unique path into a technical profession.
The series continues with Karin, our electrical engineer. Karin is 55 years old and has been working at NOFFZ Technologies since November 2022. She initially trained as an information electronics technician and then completed her technician certification in electronics at the Heinrich-Hertz-Berufskolleg in Düsseldorf. Karin’s responsibilities include the assembly and wiring of modules, chambers, testers, and much more.
The Interview with Karin
Karin, what do you particularly like about your job at NOFFZ?
„What fascinates me most about my job at NOFFZ is the extraordinary camaraderie within the company. This sense of mutual support among colleagues creates a great working atmosphere. Additionally, I am excited that my field of work is focused on the production of products in large quantities. This clear focus allows me to have a precise work area, where I can continuously optimize and improve my skills through structured processes.”
How did you come to choose a technical profession?
“It was clear to me that after finishing school, I wanted to stand on my own two feet and move out of my parents’ house. However, this was only possible with my own income, so training was the only option for me. Getting an office job with a secondary school diploma proved to be difficult. Therefore, I had no choice but to choose a technical apprenticeship. This decision turned out to be a perfect fit, and I am more than satisfied with it.”
Have you ever encountered prejudice as a woman in the workplace, and how do you deal with it?
„During my apprenticeship, businesses and workshops were predominantly male. Typical calendars with pictures of women hung on the walls, and I often had to endure silly remarks and comments. There were also recurring doubts about whether a woman could achieve anything in this field. However, I didn’t let that get to me and responded with a coffee cup featuring a naked man. Although this cup often disappeared to the back of the cupboard, the message got through.
When my male colleagues eventually realized that women could work just as well – and often more precisely – in this field, they were impressed. I was subsequently requested by various companies. Campaigns by the employment agency also began to specifically target women for technical professions.“
What changes would you like to see in the technology sector to make it more attractive to women?
“Here at NOFFZ, I haven’t noticed anything negative that I would change. As a woman, I receive comprehensive support and help whenever I need it.