with us

After studying a master’s degree in chemical engineering at the University at Buffalo in New York, Aditi Verma (30) started her career with Kelvion as an Application Engineer in York, Pennsylvania. In 2021, she joined the Global Sales and Solution team as the Market Manager for Data Center, Refrigeration, and HVAC. As a part of the GSS team, she supports them on their projects globally and is involved in multiple projects with tight deadlines.

Why did you decide to join the heat exchanger industry?
During the master's degree, I did my research in thermodynamics transport analysis, which is very closely related to the fundamentals of designing heat exchange solutions. So, I wanted to put the knowledge that I gained during my thesis or my background into practice and this industry. It's about providing efficient solutions not only to the existing applications, but you must always be up to date on technology so that you can stay at the forefront of the new real-world challenges. As an engineer, this also gives me the opportunity to be involved in that innovation.

 

Give us a glimpse into your daily work routine. What do you enjoy? What is important to you?
As Market Manager GSS, I support multiple projects globally. Currently, I am US based and I really love working with my international team which often requires flexible time schedules. Kelvion provides us with flexible working conditions ~ be it in terms of times, but also locally. I regularly have some overlap with my German colleagues, so I do half time German time and half time US time. Furthermore, management is easily approachable when support is needed, creating a trustworthy environment and helps towards career advancement.

 

How does your role as Market Manager GSS contribute to the ongoing energy transition?
Europe and the US are the forerunners in the heat pump industry. Currently, heat pumps are aggressively being required by our customer base. Because I work with the Refrigeration and HVAC markets as well, we are in this transition phase where the market is moving towards a very sustainable and independent heating method which is the heat pump. And these can be used for all commercial applications like heating, cooling businesses, buildings, swimming pools, and that's basically my daily designing. In fact, we have developed and launched our high-pressure laser welded cassette product line which is specifically for the heat pump market. With this, we are trying to embrace this transition and I feel really proud to be a part of this.

 

Why did you opt for Kelvion?
Kelvion has also supported me in my journey from the day I entered the industry after graduation. Technically, it gave me access to real-world applications and associated problems. At Kelvion, we not only try to understand how these problems impact the systems but also devise solutions for them. The vibrant and dynamic solutions portfolio, the global footprint and intercompany/inter BU interactions were highly attractive for me. I think it gives an individual like me an option to explore different areas (technical or non-technical) and enhance my sphere of knowledge which otherwise could be limited.

Kelvion has given me exposure to markets across the globe. So, I have learned a lot about how to look at problems from a global perspective. This has also helped me improve my communication skills, manage my tasks better, be detail oriented and to be calm when a conflicting situation arises. These are the skills that I now use in my personal life as well. 

Based in Herne, Germany, Stefan Kleinjung is the Head of Product Line Management MCS & PHE. With a background in Engineering and an MBA degree, Stefan has a passion for digitalisation and is a part-time lecturer on ‘business model innovation & digitalisation’  at the FOM university.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the heat exchanger industry?
Heat exchangers play a substantial role in our daily lives - from power generation and transportation to food and beverage production. Although seemingly basic, they are highly sophisticated products, making the industry an intriguing field to work in. This is precisely why I decided to pursue a career in the heat exchanger industry and join Kelvion. In particular, Kelvion is a company that is focused on the future and is home to a team of exceptional individuals, from the shop floor to the upper management. Although it is a large company, it is still of a size where individuals can have a direct impact and help shape the company's direction and future. What sets Kelvion apart is the team's unwavering commitment to driving the company forward and taking it to the next level. This aligns perfectly with my own goals and ambition to drive innovation and business development.

What does your current position entail?
For me, every day is different – I work on multiple projects focused on the development of a customer-centric, forward-thinking product portfolio suitable for the future. The key to success here is to empower my team to effectively carry out their responsibilities. I take pleasure in my job because it enables me to foster business development and innovation with enthusiastic colleagues in a global environment. Further, we act in a very dynamic industry as we are in a phase of change. This is really exciting for me as the ongoing energy transition significantly affects numerous core applications we supply. In product line management, our focus is on identifying emerging trends associated with it and discovering the most effective solutions for our customers' challenges. This includes developing heat exchangers for waste heat recovery, NOx and methane slip reduction, and even for electric (battery) trains. It goes without saying that we also strive to make our own products more sustainable by implementing design changes and optimising our production processes.

 

In what ways did Kelvion shape your personal and professional growth?
Kelvion placed confidence in me right from the start, and my line managers were excellent mentors who I could learn from. As a result, I was promoted to Head of Product Line Management for MCS within about two years. Additionally, the HR department gave me the chance to participate in the Network Future programme to develop the next generation of leaders. Network Future is a one-year programme designed to nurture young talent. C-Level selects around 10 participants from Kelvion worldwide annually, and the project topic changes every year.

Minh Vu Nguyen, 31, joined Kelvion in 2013. After completing his training as an industrial clerk at the Sarstedt site, he has been working in the commercial order processing and export department, not only acting as an interface to ensure the correct processing of our customers’ orders, but also as the first point of contact for international customers and partners.

What was your first impression of Kelvion when you applied in 2013?
When I applied for the apprenticeship, I immediately noticed that the apprentices were very involved in the application process and took on responsible tasks. For example, we were prepared and supervised by trainees at the assessment centre, which every applicant had to go through. Then, after finishing the assessment centre successfully, we also had the opportunity to exchange with the apprentices. This way, I got a very transparent and open insight into the vocational training paths at Kelvion. That helped me decide on Kelvion as my training company. The transparency and open exchange within the team is still part of our corporate culture today.

 

How did your apprenticeship go?
The vocational training itself was very comprehensive. I went through all the departments, from goods receiving to shipping and work preparation. I really liked this cross-functional experience, and I benefited from it during my apprenticeship. It allowed me to build up a broad range of skills and to choose an area in which I would like to specialise after my apprenticeship. In my case, I chose order processing with a focus on exports. However, the link to production was also very exciting for me. It allowed me to understand the link between production and commercial processes.
 

Today you work in order processing/export. Why did you decide to focus on this area? 
After working in commercial order processing/export for a while, I took an additional qualification as a customs specialist. I was given time off for this additional qualification so that I could concentrate fully on it. Taking a break from the operational side of the business for this additional qualification helped me a lot because the study period was very intense. Since 2020, I have worked as the Deputy Head of Commercial Order Processing and have since been able to grow into leadership roles. At the end of 2022, I took on the role of the Head of Commercial Order Processing and the Export Control Officer. This involves ensuring compliance with export control policies, taking into account current foreign trade regulations and deciding whether or not a product requires an export control licence. As an interface, we communicate internally with the relevant departments, such as Sales, Work Preparation, Production and Shipping, to provide customers with well-founded information on the status of orders. For me, the most exciting part of our department is still working with international partners and getting to know many different cultures from all over the world and having such a great team in the commercial order processing department to share the working day with.

Being fascinated by technology from a young age, Suzan Aliakar, 33, was destined for a technical career. She attended a technical gymnasium and later studied environmental process engineering, during which time she had the opportunity to be an intern at Kelvion. Her positive experience led her to write her bachelor's thesis on double tube systems, which she completed while working with the company. While writing her thesis, Suzan had access to the company's factory and had her own test stand where she could assemble heat exchangers with different materials and conduct testing.

How has Kelvion supported your career ambitions?
Kelvion has been instrumental in nurturing my passion for technical knowledge. After my studies in 2015, I joined the company as a Sales Engineer for Double Tube Heat Exchangers, where I stayed for five years. In 2019, to my surprise, I was invited to join the Network Future programme despite my relatively short time at the company. It was exciting to get such an opportunity at such a young age. The one-year Network Future programme is designed to nurture young talent. The management selects around 10 participants from Kelvion worldwide annually, and the project topic changes every year. The skills I acquired through the programme equipped me with practical leadership skills, allowing me to successfully manage complex international projects and assume a leadership role. In March 2020, I assumed the position of Director Sales for Double Tube Systems, drawing on my skills from the Network Future programme and external leadership training. Over the years, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge and experience, and have been entrusted with managing three departments and 14 employees. Recently, I was also given responsibility for the Transformer Cooling Systems and Traction Transformer Cooling Systems Sales Teams, further emphasising Kelvion's confidence in my abilities and I am truly grateful for the opportunities provided by the company to strengthen my personal and professional growth.

 

What do you enjoy most about your current position?
From the outset of my studies, I was supported and encouraged by Kelvion, and this support has continued throughout my career development. What I particularly enjoy about my current role is the close-knit relationship with my colleagues and the familiar atmosphere, along with the opportunity to work on innovative and customisable products such as the double tube heat exchangers. I am involved in the entire process from product selection to sales, which enables me to build relationships with customers and participate in the creation of new products. This comprehensive approach to product development keeps me engaged and motivated. I really value the international nature of the company, which fosters strong connections with colleagues worldwide and provides opportunities to work with customers from diverse cultures. Despite Kelvion’s global reach, the local sites maintain a sense of familiarity and closeness, creating a perfect blend of technology and internationality while preserving the local atmosphere. My position at Kelvion offers an exceptional mix of qualities that keep me challenged and fulfilled. 

 

How does your role contribute to supporting customers’ quest for more environmentally friendly solutions?
I find it most rewarding when customers visit our site, and we can showcase our production capabilities to them. This allows us to establish a personal connection and demonstrate the value of our products firsthand. Rather than simply supplying heat exchangers, we work in partnership with customers to optimise their processes and develop new concepts that align with their sustainability objectives. In the marine industry, for example, we collaborate closely with customers to explore solutions for greener ship engines in line with the goals of the International Maritime Organization. The organisation set the challenging target of decreasing greenhouse gases by 50% by the year 2050. Our heat exchangers play a key role in this transition. LNG, for example, is one of the newer green fuels used for ships in dual fuel engines. In the process of making LNG usable as fuel, our double tube and single tube systems have already been used as components. We have also been experimenting with other green fuels such as ammonia and methanol. In the transformer cooling group, we have already made strides in supporting sustainable transportation with our delivery of pumps for electric trains. Overall, our relationships with customers are centred on building strong partnerships and providing innovative solutions that align with their sustainability goals.

Li Junwei (23) is a mechanical major student at Anhui Information Engineering College. He is fascinated by heat exchanger technology - especially in view of the ongoing energy transition. An internship in the Project Department at Kelvion in Wuhu, China, was therefore the perfect opportunity to extend his knowledge.

Why did you join the heat exchanger industry?  
I think the heat exchanger industry has a bright future. Due to the continuous development of technology, the requirements are constantly changing, and heat exchangers will enter more industries. And, because of global temperature changes, heat exchangers will be used in areas that would not otherwise need them. So demand is rising continuously. Our products play a key role in the ongoing energy transition and, as new energy will demand the transformation of the heat exchanger technology, we need to implement new projects using new products. I am proud to be part of that transition.

 

What attracted you to join Kelvion? 
Kelvion offers great benefits, team harmony, and great potential for personal growth and professional development. What stands out to me most is that I am moved by the competent and responsible spirit of the staff, who give their best every day. Furthermore, the company has a perfect medical expense reimbursement system, which provides employees with attractive working conditions.

 

How did you develop as a person and as a heat exchanger expert during your internship?
To teach new employees we have a mentoring programme to train and encourage students' autonomy and development. For me personally, it is great to have the opportunity to make use of my knowledge, apply it in practice and learn even more. I have learned more about the function of mechanical parts, learned a lot that could not be obtained from books, gained a deeper understanding of my major, which gave me a direction for learning.

Viola Jeyajeevan joined Kelvion as an apprentice in 2015 and steadily advanced, taking on various roles within the company. After completing her apprenticeship, she began her career as an HR coordinator before moving to a new challenge in IT In-house Consultant Project Management. Currently, Viola, still only 26, finds herself in yet another demanding role, as the PMO Manager Sales & Service.

What were your ambitions when you were younger?
I was thinking about my future and exploring potential apprenticeship options and I was intrigued by Kelvion’s global presence and international reach. My aspiration was to be part of a multinational corporation that offered plenty of opportunities and Kelvion seemed like the perfect fit. I've always been fascinated by different cultures and people, and I wanted to find a way to merge that with my interest in business. I made the decision to join Kelvion with the belief that it would provide me with many paths for professional and personal growth.

Has your aspiration come true?
Definitely - as PMO Manager for Sales & Service, I collaborate with colleagues from various regions. In addition to working with Kelvion’s leadership team, I also get to work on strategic projects and connect with individuals from all around the globe. Combining my professional goals with my passion for diverse cultures has been wonderful.

What makes Kelvion stand out from other companies in supporting career development?
I think my passion for challenges is evident in my drive to seek them out. This is precisely what draws me to Kelvion and sets it apart from other companies.
If you express interest in a particular area, Kelvion provides you with opportunities and training to prove yourself. I’m thankful for the amount of knowledge and personal growth that I’ve already gained and will continue to do so in the future.
The company has shown confidence in me, given me support and offered me numerous paths for development. I will continue to seek out challenges to encounter new versions of myself along the way and Kelvion’s flexibility and versatility provide me with the freedom to do so.

Do you think Kelvion was the right choice for you as a young person to join the business world and would you have done anything differently? 
Kelvion was always supportive and remains dedicated to developing employees - including me, for example, during my part-time studies.
I have been fortunate enough to pursue my interests and make changes when I felt the need to switch things up, resulting in a satisfying career so far. While many individuals find themselves becoming bored with their jobs after only a few years, Kelvion keeps me intrigued by allowing me to continuously reinvent myself and take on new challenges.  I can be, make and drive change, challenge myself and the company. I would 100% choose Kelvion and this path again.

Hanasyafini Yusoff, a 39-year-old Sales Manager in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, pursued a career in mechanical engineering as it provided her with the opportunity to witness tangible outcomes of her work, unlike many other professions. In 2007, she obtained her degree and subsequently worked in various companies, primarily in sales and service engineering roles in industries such as oil and gas and power generation.

What motivated you to pursue a career as a sales and service engineer? 
I always wanted to see the direct impact of my work. As a mechanical engineer, I found it particularly satisfying to be able to observe the immediate outcomes of my efforts and identify areas that required additional attention through maintenance and service. Furthermore, I was drawn to the prospect of directly influencing the success of the company through my sales performance. As someone who values results and enjoys being part of a team that drives growth, I felt that a position as a sales and service engineer would be the best fit for me. I wanted to be in a position that would allow me to apply my interests and skills in a way that aligns with my values and ambitions.

What attracted you to enter the heat exchanger industry, and later join Kelvion? 
Prior to joining the heat exchanger industry, I worked as a product manager for pumps in Malaysia. Seeking a new challenge, I decided to transition into the heat exchanger industry and test my knowledge in this field. I appreciated the opportunity to learn something new and apply my skills to a completely different set of products and customer demands.In 2021, I joined Kelvion because I was drawn to the company's diverse range of products. Unlike my previous job, where I only focused on one product line, Kelvion offered me the chance to expand my responsibilities and familiarise myself with a wider range of products. I was excited by the prospect of overseeing customer locations throughout Southeast Asia, rather than just in Malaysia as I did before. At Kelvion, there is always something new to learn, whether it's about customers in different countries or how to meet their specific requirements. The company provides opportunities for growth and development, including training programmes and the option to pursue new roles within the organisation. I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic company and look forward to continuing to learn and grow in my role.

What are your responsibilities and favorite aspects of your current job? 
I spend 60% of my time travelling to other countries, primarily to meet new clients and assess their sales and service needs. This provides me with an opportunity to witness the customer's issues firsthand and offer solutions. Afterwards, I discuss the site conditions with my colleagues to determine the best approach for achieving the client's goals. In addition, managing agents has been an exciting new challenge for me. I directly manage three agents and indirectly manage two others. I conduct monthly meetings to understand their challenges and learn about potential new prospects. We also have an annual summit where we meet with all agents to discuss our business development plans. I find it fascinating to explore what clients want in a product and analyse their specifications to determine their actual needs. My job provides me with the opportunity to consult with clients and collaborate with them to optimise their plans and concepts, rather than simply supplying a product. This aspect of my job is particularly fulfilli

How do you perceive your present role and its impact on the future
Being results-oriented, I take pride in the fact that my job actively aids other businesses' sustainability. My team and I are committed to helping customers to become greener by consuming less energy and reducing waste. By servicing heat exchangers, we considerably improve their energy efficiency, which in turn prevents potential expenses such as those arising during production halts.

With a thirst for knowledge and a drive to excel in his field, Janik Bartsch, 26, embarked on his Master's in Economic Sciences at the TU Dortmund in 2022, after completing a degree in Business Administration. While he is currently deepening his understanding of the business world, he has also been working as a student trainee in Controlling at Kelvion since 2021.

What is it like to work in a real company while still being enmeshed in your academic studies?
The experience of working at Kelvion has allowed me to put my academic knowledge into practical use and gain invaluable insights into the dynamics of financial management and controlling within a corporate setting. I've had the opportunity to collaborate with talented professionals, learn from mentors, and contribute to the company's financial success, while still just being at the beginning phase of my career.

Why did you join the heat exchanger industry?
Joining this industry was a deliberate choice. Throughout my studies, I learned about the exciting intersection of sustainability and business by writing my bachelor's thesis on that exact topic. So, this intersection and my interest in it became the driving force behind my career choice. And while researching and writing my bachelor's thesis, I gained a profound appreciation for the heat exchanger industry as it plays a meaningful role in fostering sustainable business practices.

What attracted you to join Kelvion? 
In short: Kelvion’s global perspective. In today's interconnected world, understanding the dynamics of global business operations is essential – and Kelvion allowed me to learn what it’s like to work in a globally networked company with people from all over the world. My decision to join Kelvion has been a step towards gaining a deeper understanding of how businesses operate in a global context.

Can you give us a glimpse of your daily working routine?
Well, it largely revolves around a crucial weekly event—the EWC (Every Week Counts). One of the primary tasks that occupies my week is the collection and analysis of data related to Kelvion's performance metrics such as order intake, financial forecasts, and other key performance indicators. I prepare the presentation that serves as the cornerstone of our discussions during the EWC. This involves not only compiling the data but also presenting it in a clear, concise and impactful manner for the management team. The EWC influences the company's direction and decision-making process. It involves meticulous data collection, effective communication, and a commitment to delivering insights that drive the organization forward.

What do you like most about your job?
One of the things I genuinely treasure is the opportunity to collaborate with many different individuals. We are a collective force working together towards a common goal. The synergy that emerges from this is truly remarkable. It allows us to approach challenges and opportunities from various angles, drawing on a wealth of knowledge and perspectives.

How did Kelvion support you in your development? 
Kelvion has a unique approach to nurturing talent, which begins with trust and independence. From day one, I was entrusted with responsibilities and given the freedom to perform my job independently. This trust not only instilled a sense of confidence but also provided me with a platform to refine my skills. The autonomy to make decisions and execute tasks allowed me to take ownership of my work, fostering personal growth and a sense of accountability.

Is there a connection between the ongoing energy transition and the Controlling department?
Definitely. Traditionally Controlling is focused on financial aspects. But now, it extends its reach to non-financial value drivers that are closely linked to sustainability. These drivers include metrics related to carbon emissions, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and social responsibility, among others. I am responsible for examining and monitoring these value drivers with the same rigour and attention as financial figures. By tracking and reporting on these metrics, we can measure our progress, identify areas for improvement, and align our strategies with the goals of the energy transition.

Timo Kivilaht, 34, started his journey with Kelvion in 2018 – and what a journey it has been so far: Commencing as the VP Field Sales for the DACH region, he steadily advanced from EVP Sales DACH and EVP Global Sales & Solutions BU RT to become Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Solutions.

Why did you join the heat exchanger industry?
Industries are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact and work hard to minimise it. The heat exchange business is no exception, and I was intrigued to be part of an industry that can have such a positive impact in reducing global warming, for example through re-using energy. By capturing and repurposing energy with heat exchangers, companies can significantly cut down on expenses, all while contributing to a more resource-efficient industry. The heat exchange business is inherently innovative. Engineers and professionals in this field are constantly pushed to optimise existing technologies. I want my work to contribute to a lasting impact on both the environment and the economy. All in all, it’s a great industry to be working in, allowing me to engage in purposeful work while actively fostering positive change.

What attracted you to join Kelvion?
I value the opportunity to develop myself and to do so within a company that upholds a standard of product excellence. It fills me with pride to be a part of a system that elevates our partners with our products. Kelvion’s global presence alone speaks volumes about the opportunities one can have here. Kelvion offers a unique platform for professionals to engage with many cultures, markets, and challenges.  This global reach has broadened my horizon and nurtured a global perspective. To me, the mix of diverse individuals with unique sets of skills and experiences, and an environment of continuous learning and innovation, sets Kelvion apart.

Could you describe your typical work routine?
I, along with my dedicated team, work daily to create optimal solutions for our valued partners and customers. My daily routine revolves around teamwork and collaboration, engaging discussions, brainstorming sessions, and strategy meetings with my team members. We share insights and pool our expertise to engineer innovative solutions that address the diverse needs of our partners and customers. My team and I are dedicated to understanding our customers’ unique challenges, aspirations and requirements. Whether it's through direct communication,virtual meetings or in-person interactions, the goal is to establish an environment of trust and mutual understanding – all to provide exceptional value to our partners and customers.

What do you like most about your job?
I’m passionate about engaging with partners and customers to find exceptional solutions. I find immense satisfaction in the intricate process of agreeing on a technical solution that aligns perfectly with our partner's needs. It creates a sense of accomplishment and meaning when we elevate our partners with our solutions. This dynamic environment keeps me continually engaged and enthusiastic.

Why should people join Kelvion?
The decision to join Kelvion is an investment in not only your professional future but also your personal development. You’re empowered to grow and make an impact, both on yourself and the business. Through comprehensive training programmes and my mentor, I was able to enhance my technical and soft skills needed to excel in my role and make meaningful contributions. This access to various training and guidance has been pivotal in my growth as both a professional and a heat exchange expert.

Could you describe your contribution to the ongoing energy transition?
I see myself as being responsible for steering the team towards engineering solutions that seamlessly support the shift to sustainable energy sources and practices. Our mission is to not only comprehend the intricacies of this transition but to proactively shape our offerings to align with its goals. My team and I have a shared vision comprising renewable energy, resource optimisation, and carbon footprint reduction, all while keeping our sights set on innovation.

At weekends, Jamie channels her love for speed into instructing motorcycle riders along the American East Coast. During the week, this mother of two takes on the role of Supplier Quality Engineer at Kelvion in Knoxville, USA, where she manages supplier quality across the Americas. Working in a male-dominated industry has brought its challenges, she admits, but these experiences have ultimately bolstered her mental resilience and self-confidence. Learn more about Jamie's inspiring career journey.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you came to join our company?
Over the past 10 years, I have worked in various production facilities, from the automotive and pharmaceutical industries to printing manufacturing and more. During these years I have had the opportunity to gain a lot of experience and develop a wide range of skills. I have held roles such as Plant Manager / Director, Quality Director, Quality Manager, Quality Supervisor and Quality Engineer. When the opportunity arose at Kelvion, I was intrigued by the company and the industry, and the move seemed like the right next step.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in the heat exchanger industry?
I am passionate about learning, and I see knowledge as the key to success. Kelvion as a company piqued my interest with the innovations they seem to hold in the field. The company's reviews and reputation made me curious, and I wanted to be part of an industry that plays a crucial role in different sectors. It seemed like the right place for me to challenge myself and grow.

What is your current role, and what are your primary responsibilities?
My responsibilities are quite varied – I deal with supplier issues, conduct assessments / audits, manage complaints and quality issues, oversee corrections and credits back from suppliers, and communicate Kelvion’s standards to suppliers to uphold the best product possible for our customers. I have also expanded my role to Kentucky to help with the challenges in the plants there. I work closely with the procurement department to ensure Kelvion's requirements are met by our suppliers and our policies are followed to meet our customers' expectations.

How was your first day at Kelvion?
My first day was characterised by hope and a warm welcome, which left a strong first impression. There was a lot of work waiting for me and although it felt overwhelming at times, I love learning new things. For me, knowledge is power, so from the beginning I saw it as an opportunity to develop myself further.

What opportunities for career growth and development have you experienced since joining the company?
I am lucky to work with a great team with an exceptional boss who really supports the development of her employees / team members. My boss is always open to my suggestions and the trust in my experience shows through her actions. Although I was originally hired for the Knoxville location, my boss allowed me to expand my role to the vertical market so that I can work across the Americas to help the One Kelvion umbrella and unify supplier quality across multiple plants.

How have you navigated working in an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated? And what advice would you give to other women entering male-dominated fields to help them thrive in their roles?
It was a challenge because my age was often seen as a measure of my value in the engineering field in the companies I worked for over the years. When I was younger in the field, my ideas were accepted and encouraged, but I experienced some difficulties after age was discussed and it seemed I lost credibility when I was younger. It became more difficult to achieve my goals. However, these hurdles made me stronger and helped me grow and adapt faster, which was very valuable. My advice would be to stay true to yourself. Don't change your course or your habits to fit in. As Teddy Roosevelt once said, “speak softly, but always carry a big stick.” Let your actions and your work speak for you and make sure you are heard through the quality of what you do. Consistency and self-confidence are key.

What personal strengths do you believe have helped you succeed in a male-dominated field, and how do you leverage these strengths in your daily work?
I developed a strong sense of self-confidence and mental resilience, which was very important. You must be honest with yourself, take criticism constructively and learn from it. At the same time, you can't let anyone belittle you – you must assert yourself and emphasise your strengths in your work.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Are there any hobbies, passions or activities you’re particularly enthusiastic about?
I am very interested in motorcycles – I have a novice club racing licence and work with others as an instructor / coach for various Track Day organisations in the southeast. From February to October each year, I spend weekends travelling up and down the east coast of the United States, teaching other riders how to ride safely, vital techniques and skills, and how to reach their goals in the sport. I also own a photography business, Wicked Photography, which allows me to explore my creative side outside of Kelvion. And of course, spending time with my kids and family is something that is always a priority for me.

What is your secret to a good work-life balance? 
For me, it's important to make the most of my working days, but also to know when I need a break. My breaks help me to recuperate and come back with a fresh perspective, especially when I'm dealing with stressful projects. I have to say that of all the workplaces I've worked at, Kelvion and my current supervisor are the best I've ever had. She gives the team the freedom they need and is very caring. There is not a lot of pressure and if someone is stressed, we always find a supportive way to deal with it.

Guido is based at our Dutch site of Kelvion Refrigeration B.V. and, as CI Coordinator for Operations and Lean Management, he is at the forefront of sustainability whether optimising processes or improving production. Guido continuously contributes to making our production even more efficient and sustainable. In our interview, he talks about his day-to-day work, what drives him and how he balances professional success and personal happiness.

Hi Guido, why don´t you start by telling us about your typical working day?
My typical working day begins at 7am with participation in our daily start-up meeting.
After than I check my mails and prepare for meetings before I start my daily round through our production sites. My focus here is on identifying potential for optimisation. After that I work on cause analyses and problem solving on the production sites.
In the afternoon I devote myself to project improvements, meetings and coaching with the team leaders.

What thrills you about transformation and sustainability? 
I believe that improving our work environment and reducing waste is important for our people and planet. That’s why I am enthusiastic about improving processes, as it is beneficial for all of us. 
So I’m very proud of being a part of Kelvion, because our heat exchange solutions are not only used daily but also have a big impact on complex production processes.
At Kelvion, we are continuously driving forward sustainability initiatives. In Sint Maartensdijk for example, we are currently switching our lighting in production completely to LED or insulating our heating systems to further reduce our carbon footprint. 

With your interesting and challenging working day, you need a balance in your free time – so what do you do when you're not at Kelvion? 
I spend a lot of time with my wife, family and friends. We often go to the gym together or go on long bike rides. That's how we keep fit. I also read a lot, either on work related topics such as leadership and lean management, but I also like philosophical books such as ‘Mediations’ by Markus Aurelis, the former Roman emperor, or ‘Can’t Hurt Me’ by David Goggins.

You’ve been working for Kelvion for several years now. Can you remember your first day with us?
I started as a working student in 2017, while studying logistics, and was initially assigned to the financial department. Then I switched to the supply chain department. 
After graduating, I came back to Kelvion in 2020 with great pleasure. 
I had the backing and support of my colleagues straight away – it was an excellent start to my career. Thanks to my existing knowledge, I was able to continue my work seamlessly.

What is your vision for the future with Kelvion?
Kelvion is the world's leading developer and manufacturer of heat exchange solutions, and I want to help ensure that our factories go on delivering the highest quality. 
My goal is to continuously improve our production and working methods so that not only our customers benefit, but also the environment.