"It is a central concern of mine to demonstrate the attractiveness and relevance of the engineering profession to a broader public and especially to the younger target group". (Image above: Nicolas Durville)

The answers from Nicolas Durville, CEO of Zühlke, Switzerland:

When and in what context did you first hear about Engineers' Day (then Engineers' Day)?

Shortly after the founding of Engineers' Day, we were asked whether I, as CEO of Zühlke Switzerland, would like to be involved in the patronage. It was clear to me that I would accept immediately. The promotion of engineering is a matter close to my heart.

You have made yourself prominently available as a patron. Why are you involved in this event?

To promote the profession and make it better known, and also to contribute to Switzerland as a center of innovation. For me personally, as well as for Zühlke, the promotion of young talent and careers, as well as the strengthening of Switzerland as a center of innovation, are central. The increased visibility of engineering achievements in the public eye supports these concerns at their core.

What goal or goals would you highlight as the most important priority in terms of your involvement in Engineers' Day or everyday life?

Demonstrating the attractiveness and relevance of the engineering profession to a broader public, and especially to the younger target group, is very central to me. As Zühlke, we succeed in this by talking about our diverse, innovative and exciting projects, highlighting the positive impact of technological progress on the economy, society and the environment.

Why do you think engineers and their achievements are not perceived enough in everyday life and what can engineers do about it?

We need to show even more clearly where our daily work makes a difference. We need to get these messages out to the public even more - especially to schools.

If you had one wish to be able to influence the promotion of young talent even more, who would it be and what would it be?

We must succeed in attracting even more women to our field. Sustainable innovation is always dependent on diversity. Here, politics is called upon to set the right accents in education. Companies, in turn, should focus even more on the strengths of our dual education system in Switzerland and train apprentices accordingly.

Do you have any other wishes in connection with Engineers' Day?

I would like to see a variety of exciting events and content that showcase the diversity and innovative power of engineering - and I would also like to see them presented in a playful way for a younger target group.

Which future challenge(s) do you see as the most significant, for which we urgently need more engineers?

We are convinced that innovations and technological progress can bring about lasting positive change in our economy and society. Especially with regard to the major challenges we face as a global society. Switzerland can make an important contribution here - for example, by positioning itself as a location for ethically responsible AI. For this, we need the appropriate political framework and, of course, sufficient skilled workers - which brings us back to the topic of promoting young talent, thus closing the circle.

Thank you very much for this interview.

Further information about Zühlke: www.zuehlke.com