Craftsmanship meets technology

When craftsmanship meets technology – it results in understanding, not just design

Michael Andresen, Head of Technical Building Systems at Inros Lackner in Hamburg

How did you get into the field of technical building systems – what sparked your interest?
I am a trained carpenter and have always been fascinated by the combination of building services and structural engineering. The interplay between these becomes particularly tangible in the supervision of construction, the requirements of which were clear and tangible to me from the start. The combination of technical understanding and practical craftsmanship still forms the basis of my work today.

Which duties or projects were particularly formative on your path to becoming a manager?
My entry into construction supervision began with GRIMMWELT in Kassel. However, my first project – the Schleswig-Holstein headquarters for training and further education of emergency police (PDAFB) in Eutin – was particularly formative. As a project engineer, I oversaw this project from the planning stage through to the subsequent construction supervision of all HVAC trades. This gave me the opportunity to assume responsibility and demonstrate my leadership skills for the first time. One of my strengths is certainly the combination of my engineering training and the craftsmanship gained from my carpentry apprenticeship. This special combination of timber construction and building services engineering recently helped us acquire a project – it is a combination that is rarely found on the market.

In your current role as department head, what is particularly important to you and what topics are currently the focus of your work?
It is important to me that we as a team not only deliver high-quality technical solutions, but also maintain an open, appreciative working environment. For me, this particularly includes promoting young talent, actively sharing knowledge, and driving innovation. Currently, my focus is on topics such as energy-efficient building technology, the use of digital planning methods (BIM), and the implementation of sustainable concepts.