The machine whisperer

Sensors are now present in most of the objects we use in our everyday lives, ensuring that they are comfortable and run smoothly. But before they can be used in end devices, they have to be manufactured using production technology. Martin Schaarschmidt tells us exactly what a production technologist does.

What did you study and how did you come to work for First Sensor?

I studied electrical engineering at the TU Dresden and graduated in 2017. While I was writing my diploma thesis, one of my fellow students told me about First Sensor and that he is working there. Already then I found the topic of sensor technology exciting: How small particles can move and influence something as big as cars. Right after my studies I had the opportunity to do an internship in the USA at the Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia. But it was clear to me that as soon as I came back, I would apply to First Sensor. In November 2017, that time had come.

What exactly do you do in production technology?

To put it quite simply, as a production technologist I have to tell the machines that manufacture our products what they should do - for example, place a component on the printed circuit board. In practice, of course, this is more complex. Before a command can be programmed and entered into a production machine, it must be planned and organized exactly which work steps and methods are necessary for production. Accordingly, together with colleagues, clear specifications must be made for on-schedule and cost-effective production.

What do you find particularly intriguing about manufacturing technology?

That it is so varied and demanding. Sometimes it can take a whole day to reset and program a machine because it is on strike or because a new product needs to be manufactured. Then I spend a lot of time in the clean room and can put my technical knowledge to practical use. As a production technologist, it is also part of the process that the technical documentation is maintained. Here, everything that describes a product and instructs its use, maintenance, or repair is recorded systematically and in a structured manner. With new products this can mean several hours of office work. I think it's great to switch between production and office, you never get bored that way.

Which qualifications are particularly important for your daily work?

On the one hand, this is my specialized knowledge. I know our machines and products inside out. If something doesn't work as it should, I can probably solve the issue without external help. On the other hand, there are various characteristics that make everyday life easier. These include patience, attention to detail, technical affinity, flexibility and, last but not least, the ability to work in a team. One of our corporate values is proximity. It doesn't start with the customer, but right from the very beginning between colleagues. If we work together and communicate well, we can supply our customers with a high-quality end product.

Which aspects do you think are important in an employer?

For me, it is important that both the company and the employee strive to grow. At my location, First Sensor Mobility GmbH in Dresden, we manufacture pressure and camera sensors for the automotive industry. In this growth market there are new leaps in development every day and we are right there with our products. Responsible tasks should also play a big part. Through my work I am directly involved in decisive processes. I like the fact that I continually experience successes because of this. But the most important thing is to have fun. Thanks to a great team, the joy of working is not diminished even on very stressful days.

Thank you very much for the interview Mr. Schaarschmidt!