Philipp Bolsinger, who is currently completing his research master's degree in "Advanced Systems Design" at Aalen University of Applied Sciences, was awarded this year's Bosch Technology Competence Award by Robert Bosch Automotive Steering GmbH for his outstanding academic achievements and his great commitment to social causes. "You are one of those people who achieve something extraordinary and go the extra mile," said Managing Director Dr. Stefan Waschul, praising the student ... at the award ceremony at the Bosch campus in Schwäbisch Gmünd.
Impressing the jury
More than two decades ago, the Technology Competence Award for students at the institution of higher education in Aalen was launched by the former ZF Lenksysteme GmbH. This long-standing tradition, which reflects the good cooperation, cooperative venture, partnership, collaboration between the institution of higher education and the largest employer in Schwäbisch Gmünd, is being continued by Robert Bosch Automotive Steering GmbH as the successor organization. "With the Bosch Technical Competence Award, we not only want to honor technical excellence, but also to recognize commitment to society," emphasized Waschul. This year's award winner Philipp Bolsinger fulfills both characteristics outstandingly and impressed the entire jury. University Rector Prof. Dr. Harald Riegel also emphasized the importance of such awards for the students and the institution of higher education: "We also see ourselves as a partner of the regional economy, financial, cost-effective. The competence award is very important for our students. In addition to the grades (general), non-graded assessment (SPO) accordingly, it also promotes and recognizes self-motivation". This is eminently important for successful Studies, but also for later professional life.
Tutor, student teaching assistant for mathematics and electrical drives
After graduating from secondary school, Bolsinger initially completed vocational training as an Electronics technician. He then completed a two-year technician apprenticeship and obtained his university of applied sciences entrance qualification. He then studied electrical engineering at Aalen University of Applied Sciences. Prof. Dr. Heinrich Steinhart praised Bolsinger's expertise and social skills, who, in addition to his top assignment, credit, performance in Studies, was also involved as a tutor, student teaching assistant for mathematics and electrical drives. "Philipp Bolsinger also stands out as a mentor in the laboratory / lab, always supporting Bachelor students with their work," emphasized the electrical engineering professor. He is very pleased that the Bosch Technology Competence Award is going to a power electronics engineer this year and that Bolsinger will remain at Aalen University of Applied Sciences as a research assistant/associate/fellow after completing his Master's Thesis.
Deep-sea capable power electronics
As part of his Bachelor's thesis and subsequently during his Master's research, the young man worked on the "Deep Sea Protection" project, which conducts research into deep-sea-capable power electronics. "We are in the process of developing an autonomous underwater vehicle that is packed full of highly complex electronics. We want to use this monitoring system to accompany deep-sea mining and collect data on whether the whole thing can be made environmentally friendly," explains Bolsinger, adding enthusiastically: "This is an extremely exciting and multifaceted project, because the seabed is still one of the 'blank spots' in research, so to speak."
Enthusiasm for classic cars
Bolsinger has been interested in technical things and interrelationships since he was a child. The student grew up on an agricultural farm in Aalen. "There was always something to repair, whether it was a tractor gearbox or the dairy cattle in the barn." His enthusiasm for technology, especially classic cars, is something he shares with his father. "We're currently working on an old BMW from the 80s. None of our cars have ever really been in the workshop," says the likeable young man with a mischievous laugh. It goes without saying that he is also investing his prize money of 2,000 euros in something technical. "Retroactive, so to speak. I got my motorcycle license this year, so my bank account was already groaning a bit," grins Bolsinger.
"Can you do the electrics?"
In addition to his technical skills, Philipp Bolsinger has also distinguished himself through his social commitment. Not only does he support his fellow students as a tutor, but he is also involved in the village community of Rodamsdörfle, which fosters a lively community. "Bringing people together and not leaving everyone to fend for themselves, a good community - that's what's important to me," says the Bosch award winner. How did this come about? "I grew up with the village community and village festivals. And then at some point I was told: 'Can you do the electrics?