The event “Impulses for Practice: THM meets BVMW” launched a new networking format at the Friedberg campus, aiming to intensify the dialogue between regional academia and industry. This initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Business Administration and Engineering at the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen (THM) and the German Association for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (BVMW), brought together representatives from companies, the university, and the student body.
To kick things off, Prof. Holger Rohn and Prof. Schrems welcomed the participants to THMown Makerspace, Open A5. Afterwards, a tour of the campus provided insights into selected research and teaching areas. Stops included the VR/AR lab, the RACE Lab of the motorsport team, and the learning factory. The tour highlighted the practical approach taken at THM in addressing topics such as digitalization, production, and innovative technologies, and highlighted the opportunities for collaboration with companies.
The event focused on personal exchange. In a round of introductions, entrepreneurs, professors, and students discussed their expectations for closer collaboration. While companies outlined their needs for research, innovation, and skilled personnel, university representatives presented opportunities for joint projects. Students took the opportunity to network with potential employers and learn about career paths. The discussions continued in a relaxed atmosphere over refreshments afterward.
With this new event format, the Department and the BVMW aim to build bridges between academia and industry and to sustainably strengthen knowledge transfer. Companies should benefit more quickly from current research findings, while students and researchers gain insights into practical requirements and can develop new opportunities for collaboration.
