You've been working at ABB for nearly 12 years – how did it begin?
I remember my first day of work and the entire recruitment process. When I applied for a job at ABB, I was an academic teacher at the time, whilst also working in a high school. Working at the university, I had an opportunity to collaborate with ABB performing endurance tests for the Corporate Technology Center (CTC). As the youngest employee at the time, I was bringing test results to one of my current colleagues from the group.
I recall always being impressed when I was at the CTC, most because of the people. There were friendly coffee chats going on in the kitchen and a good atmosphere all around. I regularly checked for job opportunities, and when a position became available to work at CTC – for a role perfectly tailored to my background and interests – I applied. After the interview, I had mixed feelings, assuming I didn’t do that well. So, I was really surprised when, within a week, I got the good news and positive feedback.
The first few days were not easy. I was impressed by my new work colleagues but, at the same time, I felt a little insecure. This feeling did not last long as I got to know the colleagues in the group and our Group Leader. I learned more about the projects I was joining and the people were really great. They were always helpful and willing to make time for me. The projects also related to things that I knew well.
I remember how proud I was as I walked into that ABB building on my first day at work, and this feeling is still with me to this day.
What was your career path like?
I graduated from the Cracow University of Technology, at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, majoring in Materials Engineering. Then, I started a PhD at the Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomechanics, where I conducted classes with students (laboratories and classes on the strength of materials and subjects related to polymers). During my PhD studies, I also attended postgraduate studies in Mathematics at the Jagiellonian University.
The completion of these postgraduate studies enabled me to teach mathematics in secondary schools and become a teacher of mathematics and mechanics-related vocational subjects. I gained my PhD in 2009 and, since 2011, I have been working exclusively at ABB, dealing with broadly understood materials and aspects connected to that subject area.
ABB today and 10 years ago – how have things changed?
I can speak positively of the changes that have taken place in our company over the years. I like ABB’s flexibility and openness with employees. The atmosphere is still great and people I meet here are one of the many reasons why I like coming to the office every day.
At ABB, you work as a Senior Scientist. What exactly do you do in this role?
We work on projects that focus on materials-related topics. We fix issues in case they arise in our factories or at a customer site. We offer new solutions and technologies on an ongoing basis. Since this is research and development (R&D) work, we also follow technological trends to check if they can be applied to ABB solutions. The Corporate Technology Center has its own laboratories, where we often carry out tests. Personally, I love working in the labs.
Working in an R&D position also brings the possibility of your work results being published in industry journals and submitting ideas which can then be turned into patents.
All things considered, working in this position presents great opportunities for development. We work on various projects, we learn new things – there is no room here for boredom or monotony.
Why is it worth joining ABB?
Why? Because it is a great place for career development, a place where you can run fascinating projects and will not be bored or stifled by strict routine. There are amazing people and a great atmosphere. You will feel that your work is important and appreciated. It is a job in which there is also a space for other activities – you can carry out your own projects, you can inspire, you can help others, and you can develop yourself at many levels.
