At HARMAN, our engineers are the driving force behind our innovations, shaping the future with their technical expertise and creativity. From February 17-21, we celebrated their contributions during our annual Engineers Week – this year's theme, "Design Your Future," inspired participants to push boundaries and explore emerging technologies through a series of dynamic panel discussions and insightful learning sessions… read on for a closer look.
HARMAN Leaders on Tech, Culture, & Collaboration
We launched Engineers Week with an engaging panel discussion featuring our engineering and business leaders. Moderated by Armin Prommersberger, Chief Technology Officer, the panel brought together Francesca Muratore, Dr Jai Ganesh, Sharon Peng, and Stephan Preuss to explore our technology strategy and its impact on our innovation culture. The panelists highlighted engineers’ crucial role in advancing technology, from AI adoption to staying abreast of industry trends, while emphasizing the importance of increased collaboration and communication across engineering units. Looking ahead, panelists also shared their insights on the evolving needs of the industry and the massive opportunity for HARMAN to continue to lead by building an ecosystem where devices communicate seamlessly – enhancing convenience, efficiency, and user experience.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Empowering future engineers is essential for driving innovation, yet many people, especially girls and women, face barriers when pursuing careers in STEM. During the “Supporting Young People in Pursuing Careers in Engineering” panel, Jennifer Jacob, Senior Director of Communications Strategy, led a discussion about our organization’s role in fostering young talent and expanding opportunities in the field.
Panelists explored the evolving landscape for engineers and the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in breaking down barriers to entry. They emphasized how partnerships with global nonprofits, mentorship programs, and collaborations with all industry stakeholders can create a more diverse, inclusive, and supportive pathway into engineering careers.
Advancing Expertise through HARMAN University
HARMAN University’s Engineering Academy brought together experts for global learning sessions, offering deep dives into diverse engineering topics, including mechanical, electrical, optical, acoustics, systems, and lighting. Sessions also explored AI Innovations in consumer audio, industry, and automotive, giving attendees direct access to insights from our engineering leaders.
Sushil, one of our HARMAN University moderators and a leader in our Global L&D Engineering Academy, shared his experience participating in Engineers Week:
Q: How does HARMAN’s Engineers Week programming support professional development?
A: The Engineers Week program includes many events such as technical and professional development training sessions and panel discussions around a certain theme. By attending these events we learn something new that is relevant to our work – whether it is a straight technical topic or a soft skill development area. These will directly help in our professional development.
Q: How do think others will apply the skills/knowledge from Engineers Week at HARMAN?
A: Everybody has their own approach in applying the knowledge. Some will take what is covered during Engineers Week as a gateway and dig deep to find more information; others might have an “Aha” moment that they will use in their daily professional routine.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring engineers based on your experience?
A: I think the best answer was covered by Carsten Olesen, President of Consumer Audio, in the kickoff panel – “Do not be afraid of the things you don’t know, and be curious.”
Our engineers bring the highest levels of innovation, creativity, and dedication to their work every day. Through hands-on learning initiatives, corporate social responsibility programs, and industry partnerships, we at HARMAN remain dedicated to empowering young talent and shaping the future of engineering. If you’re an engineer seeking a fulfilling career, visit http://jobs.harman.com/.
