Former student of Tecnun Jon Arrizabalaga is happy as a kid with new shoes. He has long been interested in getting to know the working world outside Spain and, because he had three months of vacation this summer, he applied for a position with several companies in Northern Europe. Jon was counting on the fact that Germany would be a difficult option, as internships usually last at least 6 months. So I opted to give it a try and applied to several top companies. One of them was Porsche, where I applied through the portal job board that they have on their website. "After a phone call and two Skype interviews, all in German, they confirmed that they had a place for me at department. I am delighted," says Arrizabalaga.

What does your work there consist of?

I am currently working in Weissachwhere you can find the research and development of Porsche AG. At my department the components and subsystems of any car manufactured by Porsche (prototypes, racing cars, etc.). The department is divided according to the technical nature of each subsystem. My group focuses on testing the suspension, chassis, comfort and performance of the entire vehicle. By company policy, Porsche usually assigns someone from department as tutor. This person is not only responsible for the training, but also closely monitors the activities of the trainee. In my case, my tutor has assigned me several tasks. All of them consist of providing support to those responsible for the test stations. In addition, I have been offered the opportunity to participate in the improvement and renovation of some stations.

What would you highlight from your time at Tecnun? Do you think that people come out of it prepared to face the world of work?

Obviously, this opportunity would not have been possible without the training acquired in Tecnun. On the one hand, the high technical preparation obtained through the classes allows me to participate with confidence in any engineering discussion. On the other hand, the Formula Student Student has been core topic, as it is almost a requirement to be eligible for a place at Porsche. Outside of automotive, the perspective of project that I have gained through Formula Student has been a great experience for me. Student has equipped me with numerous tools when it comes to solving any challenge. That's why I encourage anyone to participate in projects like Formula Student. Student. Another aspect to take into account is that at Porsche only speak German. This creates some misunderstandings and awkward moments. The fact that I completed the first quarter semester in China has helped me to lose my fear and to cope with these situations.

What do you like most about engineering and the sector you are in?

Although I have taken part in several automotive-related projects, I am a person who pursues technological challenges. Of course I like and admire the automotive world, but I am open to other sectors where there are engineering projects, especially in the field of machines. Works of art that integrate different branches of engineering, capable of fulfilling tasks productively, precisely and where cutting-edge technologies play a critical role. Getting an overview of them and understanding their working principle has always been something that has always appealed to me. After all, cars are just another machine.