Interview with Alex Krause, Project Manager Business Development HYCON & ENERGY
How long have you been employed at EKRA, and could you share your key milestones and experiences during this time?
Alex: I have been employed at EKRA for almost seven years. My key milestones cannot be limited to individual projects. Instead, it was crucial to gather general experience, getting to know both our customers and their manufacturing processes better.
Could you provide an overview of your various roles and responsibilities at EKRA, especially the transition from serial production to project management in the Business Development sector?
Alex: I started in the assembly of our serial printers. It then progressed to the assembly of special machines and modules that were relocated from other locations within the ASYS Group to Bönnigheim. Due to the necessity of close collaboration within the group, additional projects, including very large ones, emerged, allowing me to participate and gain insights into the requirements for managing individual projects. The opportunity arose to take on the position of project manager. Initially, my focus was primarily on serial printers, gradually shifting towards special machines and complete solutions.
Now, as a project manager in the Business Development sector, I benefit from not only knowing many of our customers and their processes but also being able to leverage the network within the ASYS Group. Especially for large, complex projects, it is advantageous to be acquainted with all stakeholders and understand internal processes.
What aspects of fuel cell technology particularly interest you?
Alex: In my opinion, the uniqueness of fuel cell technology lies in the continuous progress of development. Significant advancements are consistently made, both by us in machine technology and by the customer in the overall process. We see significant potential for the future in hydrogen production and its conversion into electrical power. Our commitment is to continually strive to offer our customers the latest and most economical manufacturing solutions in this dynamic field.
They have been dedicated to the field of special solutions, especially fuel cells, for almost half a year now. Could you tell us more about your work in this area and the challenges you encounter?
Alex: I believe the key to special solutions, in general, is the integration of extensive experience with new innovations. In order to consistently offer our customers the latest and most advanced technology, it is necessary to combine a solid foundation with newly developed manufacturing technologies. The challenge lies in bringing together various specialized areas and tailoring a comprehensive solution precisely to the customer's requirements.
What role do concept developments play in your current position, especially in the realm of holistic solutions?
Alex: I consider concept development for comprehensive solutions as a central aspect of my role. EKRA focuses not only on printer development but also on realizing entire manufacturing processes. Concept development, in collaboration with the customer, takes precedence in this context. As various demands regarding space requirements, output, and processed materials come into play, my responsibility involves providing the customer with an insight into EKRA's offerings even before the order is placed.
Do you have a specific example for this?
Alex: To provide a concrete example, we can mention the concept development of a roll-to-roll production line. Here, we utilized our complete experience in fuel cell manufacturing, enabling us, for instance, to produce membranes on a roll-to-roll line.
This interview was conducted by Ines Günther, ASYS Group, New Business Marketing ENERGY with Alex Krause, Project Manager Business Development HYCON & ENERGY at EKRA.