Daniel Allenspacher
Technical Administrator
Position: Technical Administrator
Department: Prototype Shop
With EKPO since: March 01, 2021
Daniel, you completed an apprenticeship as a tool mechanic at ElringKlinger. What made you choose this profession at the time?
I’ve always had a strong interest in technology. Even as a teenager, I enjoyed working with my hands and bringing my own ideas to life. I remember building soapbox cars, constructing a garden shed, and working on various motorized vehicles. That’s why I knew early on that I wanted to learn a profession with a technical and mechanical focus. At a career fair, I discovered the profession of tool mechanic and got to know the company ElringKlinger. I was immediately impressed by the insights into the job and the company’s products, which led me to apply for a trial workday. After that, I had no doubt that I wanted to pursue the 3.5-year apprenticeship. During that time, I was able to learn a great deal and gain valuable experience.
After your apprenticeship, you were hired in prototype construction and then decided, after 1.5 years, to pursue full-time training to become a certified technician. What led to that decision, and how were you supported by us during that time?
I decided to pursue my mechanical engineering technician training full-time so I could complete it within two years and fully focus on it. ElringKlinger supported me by offering a re-employment contract, which gave me both security and peace of mind. That meant I was guaranteed to return to the company after completing my technician training.
"I’ve always had a strong interest in technology. Even as a teenager, I enjoyed working with my hands and bringing my own ideas to life."
How did your career change after successfully completing your technician training?
After completing my training, I first worked in the series production of fuel cell stacks and modules. Later, I had the opportunity to return to prototype construction, this time as a technical administrator. This role allows me to not only apply my technical expertise but also gain a deeper understanding of administrative processes.
What makes your job exciting and special?
In prototype construction, things rarely follow a strictly structured or predefined process – improvisation is often required. There are various development trials, unexpected challenges that need to be solved, and cross-departmental communication is always essential. These diverse tasks make my job very dynamic, exciting, and above all, interesting. What also makes it special is that I’m directly involved in building the first prototypes of new products and accompany the entire process – ideally all the way to series production.
"I perceive EKPO as a very well-structured and employee-friendly company."
What do you particularly appreciate about EKPO as an employer?
I perceive EKPO as a very well-structured and employee-friendly company. I particularly appreciate the social benefits, as these are not a given in every company. For example, I’m thinking of the provision of drinks and meals, generally good working conditions, and the relaxed working relationship between all departments.
What motivates you in your daily work?
I really enjoy that every day brings new tasks and challenges, making each workday exciting in its own way. Since my role involves both order planning and coordinating order processing, I can clearly see how we make progress step by step, learn along the way, and continuously improve our processes. I find that very motivating and enriching.
How would you describe the teamwork at EKPO?
Overall, I find the collaboration very pleasant, as all employees treat each other with respect. I feel very comfortable both in my department and throughout EKPO, because everyone’s work is appreciated and there is a certain family-like atmosphere.
