From an early fascination with physics to solving complex machine challenges, the path of Matthias Rüegg, Mechanical Engineer at ETEL, is defined by curiosity, collaboration, and a constant drive to understand how things truly work. At ETEL, he finds the perfect environment to learn, experiment, and make an impact.
When did you first realize: “This could actually be my path“?
In high school my math teacher suggested to me to study mechanical engineering, instead of physics as I intended. He said he thinks I am more interested in solutions rather than problems as such. I followed his advice.
Was there a moment during your studies or training that really changed your perspective?
During my industry internship in Bachelors, I realized the importance of diversity, both in competence and personal interests. So, I started focusing more on tools and abstract concepts like programming and control which are transversal. And I moved from Zurich to Lausanne to learn another language.
What originally attracted you to your field – and what still excites you about it today?
The interest in science, especially physics and then the complexity of man-made things.
I have this naïve dream of fully understanding how to build an entire machine, including everything
Matthias Rüegg, Engineer at ETEL
“Career means the opportunity to learn and apply—together with a team.“
How would you explain your job at ETEL to someone with no technical background at all?
We join the mechanical world, the dead machine, with the electronics that make it move, such that it can execute the task at the speed and precision it has been designed for. When we do this for a prototype for the first time, we might discover problems which we analyze and fix together with the team – designers, mechanics and other engineers. In the end, we apply the conclusions in the next design.
What surprised you most during your first weeks at ETEL?
I didn’t expect that the things I learned in university would be applied so heavily every day. This is unique with ETEL, a small company with a diverse set of interdependent products.
When do you feel in your daily work that you’re truly learning and making an impact?
I feel that I am learning whenever I am in contact with other people. The most satisfying experiences are the moments when we finally manage to track down a complicated problem, often a chain of problems, causing the machine to stay below the expected performance. These breakthrough events are rare, but when it happens it really feels like being an aircraft crash investigator finding that one loose bolt.
What does “career” mean to you?
Career means the opportunity to learn and apply. The team is the essential place for it.
Which skill do you most want to develop in the next years?
Understanding and anticipating the essential problems when designing a machine. I started to learn this in my PhD, but it takes years until you can estimate the risks well enough to design the right experiments when time is limited.
What do you do to completely switch off and recharge?
“Fixing” things (again) together with my two-year-old son.
What’s a hobby or interest people wouldn’t expect from you?
Sewing with my second-hand sewing machine.
Matthias Rüegg, Engineer at ETEL
“Creativity comes first—precision is the result.”
What are three things you always need on your desk or in your backpack?
A pocketknife and 2 things to read – something difficult and something easy.
Why ETEL – and not just any other company?
ETEL is innovative and particularly diverse in its skill set. At the same time, it is small which means you can get exposed to knowledge easily and learn fast. A nice plus for me is the opportunity to travel and interact with the engineers of our clients.
What do you appreciate most about the culture or the way people work together at ETEL?
It seems that at ETEL, people in general have pride in their work and their skill and experience. This makes great teachers. You can tell when you are approaching them for advice; almost every time, people spontaneously take the time and are happy to assist you in finding solutions.
What would you say to young talents considering starting their career at ETEL?
Come join FC ETEL on Tuesday over lunch, we really need talent!
3 Quick Questions to Finish
Coffee or tea?
Coffee
Early bird or night owl?
Early bird
Precision or creativity?
Creativity, precision is the product
