Master in Electromechanical Vehicle Engineering
Read more about the programme
Alumni Gabriel now works as an engineer at Scania
Meet Gabriel Bachmann, a German engineer who found his calling in Sweden's electric vehicle industry. From studying mechanical engineering, to pursuing a masters degree in Sweden, to becoming a test engineer at Scania.
With a background in mechanical engineering, Gabriel's passion for electric vehicles led him to pursue a master’s programme in Electromechanical Vehicle Engineering at University West, in Sweden.
“I got myself an electric vehicle, so I became really interested in the topic. And all of a sudden, I found this programme” says Gabriel. “It was very suiting for me because I have a mechanical background and I wanted to inform myself a bit more about electric vehicles. It was kind of just for fun at first, but now I am working with electric vehicles.”
Gabriel says that one of the reasons for studying in Sweden, in particular, is the good reputation the country has in Germany.
“In Germany we consider Sweden to be very advanced. I wanted to gather international experiences and also, I wanted to advance my English a bit” he explains.
From Germany to Sweden
As Gabriel got close to completing his studies, an unexpected opportunity presented itself when he connected with a fellow student working on a thesis at Scania. Intrigued by the exciting developments in the electric vehicle industry, Gabriel decided to take a leap of faith and apply for work at the company.
“I saw the job ad, applied for it and now I am here. Everything went very fast” he says.
With a sense of purpose and the prospect of making a tangible difference, Gabriel now works at Scania as a test engineer.
“Now, I have the feeling that I can contribute to a more sustainable transport systems and to climate change.”
His role revolves around ensuring the seamless functioning of charging systems and electric trucks.
"We test charging systems for heavy electric vehicles. We listen into the vehicle – how is the power distributed, what is the vehicle communicating to the charger and vice versa” Gabriel explains. “Basically, we make sure that charging works."
Through Gabriel's work he actively participates in the global shift towards sustainable transportation.
"The goal is to be a part of the shift towards a sustainable future when it comes to transport systems, to reduce carbon emissions and carbon pollution in the atmosphere. To make the Earth a more sustainable place."
The studies prepared him for work
Gabriel's educational journey, both back in Germany and at University West, equipped him with a strong foundation and a comprehensive understanding of electric vehicles.
“When it comes to a general understanding, this [Master in Electromechanical Vehicle Engineering] prepared me very well” he says. “At the end of the day, you learn the basics at your university and then later at work, you learn by doing. But in general, I got a good understanding of how things work.”
Reflecting on his overall experience, Gabriel emphasizes the importance of the practical elements during his studies and encourages others to explore the opportunities in Sweden.
"We did a lot of practical things during my master studies. It was not only theoretical” he says.
“It’s a great experience and these skills will be very important in the future. So, there will not be a lack of jobs” Gabriel explains. “And it's a very interesting field. You can contribute to something bigger. The way the programme is built is very good. So, you get a very broad picture about the topic.”
Gabriel's journey from Germany to Sweden exemplifies the power of passion and seizing opportunities. And through his work, he is leaving a mark on the path towards sustainable transportation, one electric charge at a time.