Where Theory Meets Practice: Infineon and the RWTH Business School
Sometimes, the best partnerships arise from a shared goal: fostering talent, driving innovation, and building bridges between theory and practice. This is exactly what connects the RWTH Business School and Infineon: a collaboration that inspires students and benefits the company. But what makes this partnership so special?
In a conversation with Luca Schulte, Specialist Emerging Talent Acquisition & University Relations at Infineon, it became clear how this partnership not only creates jobs and projects but also changes perspectives and creates opportunities. A look behind the scenes shows how this connection transforms lives and enriches companies like Infineon.
The Beginning of a Success Story
When Infineon first collaborated with the RWTH Business School, it quickly became apparent: there lies great potential in a collaboration. "The Business School team has an incredible sense of what the industry needs," says Luca Schulte, who is responsible for Emerging Talent Acquisition & University Relations at Infineon.
Infineon Technologies is one of the world's leading providers of semiconductor solutions. With a focus on energy-efficient technologies, the company develops products that play a key role in fields such as electromobility, industrial automation, IoT, and renewable energies. The goal is to drive innovations that make life easier, safer, and more environmentally friendly.
Within a year, the collaboration has produced a variety of outcomes, including:
- The placement of internship positions at Infineon,
- The participation of Infineons recruiting team at the RWTH Business School Career Day,
- A joint research project,
- An excursion with students to the Infineon site.
From the very beginning, openness and commitment have shaped the partnership with the RWTH Business School. “Whether at events or through exchanges in joint projects, the Business School impresses with its practical approach and its ability to turn innovative ideas into reality. Its understanding of industry requirements and its targeted promotion of talent make the collaboration particularly valuable for us,” summarizes Luca.
Internships: The First Step Toward a Successful Future
For RWTH Business School students, working at Infineon - whether through an internship, a working student position, or a thesis - is much more than just gaining work experience. It is an opportunity to challenge themselves and leave a lasting impression.
One example is Akshay Sridhar. During his internship as part of his master’s program in Data Analytics & Decision Science, he impressed with his commitment and team spirit, participated in corporate runs, and brought fresh perspectives to the company. Today, he is writing his master's thesis at Infineon. "Akshay not only convinced us with his skills but also with his passion for what he does," says Luca.
But it’s not just individual success stories that matter. Many students contribute their intercultural backgrounds and diverse skills to the teams. They help ensure that projects are not only successfully completed but also enriched with new ways of thinking.
A Day of Encounters: The Career Day
A highlight of the collaboration was the annual Career Day at the RWTH Business School. For Infineon, it was a perfect opportunity to meet students and introduce them to the company.
“The students are very well-prepared and goal oriented. Their clear vision impressed us,” recalls Luca. A visible result of the successful partnership was student Akshay’s participation as a company representative at Infineon’s booth. His story illustrates the doors such a partnership can open.
Luca (left) and Akshay (right) as Infineon representatives at the Career Day 2024.
Capstone Projects: Where Theory Meets Practice
Students in the Full-Time MBA Digitalization & Industrial Change program dive even deeper into the world of innovation through a Capstone Project as part of their studies. The current MBA cohort had the opportunity to work with Infineon on real-world challenges, developing solutions for existing issues within the company. A project that benefits both sides.
“These projects are a glimpse into the future. For us, they bring fresh ideas, while for the students, they offer the chance to apply their knowledge and get to know us as a company better,” says Luca.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look
Sometimes, the best insights come from personal encounters. This was evident during an excursion of RWTH Business School students to Infineon’s Warstein site. They had the opportunity to tour laboratories, attend presentations, and interact with employees.
“The atmosphere was filled with curiosity and enthusiasm,” recalls Luca. Such moments create connections that go beyond a single project or internship and often lead to long-term relationships.
Moving Forward Together
The partnership between the RWTH Business School and Infineon is more than just an exchange of knowledge. It is a platform where talent grows, companies evolve, and innovations emerge.
Sounds Interesting?
If your company is also interested in benefiting from the (internationally oriented) talents of the RWTH Business School, whether through direct recruitment or joint development projects, we would love to hear from you. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to get to know future specialists at an early stage and realize pioneering ideas together.
