International Women's Day 2026
Further Articles
Quality as a Competitive Advantage: A Conversation with Andy Zhou
A look behind the scenes at Hirschmann Automotive Nantong – about data-driven approaches, a strong team culture, and the shift from classic quality control to strategic quality management.
Apprentices at the Forging Workshop: Teamwork, Tradition, and Technology
Four of our mechanical engineering apprentices in their second and third years of training recently had the opportunity to take part in a very special workshop: a forging workshop with Johannes Neumayer.
Success Story – From Apprenticeship to Career!
From first day to graduation – what a journey!
Steven Shi | New Managing Director of Nantong
We would like to inform you about an upcoming management change at our Nantong plant. Steven Shi will assume the role of Managing Director, succeeding Adrian Low.
Success Story: We are a Great Place To Work®
We are delighted to announce some exciting news: Hirschmann Automotive is a certified Great Place To Work® company at five of its seven locations worldwide.
Powering Progress: Transition to 100% Green Energy Supply across the Group
With eight production plants worldwide, we have developed an ambitious investment plan. Across Europe, North Africa, Asia, and America, we have successfully integrated solar power generation into our plants.
High-Voltage Connectors: Navigating the Balance Between Safety and Cost
Amid the rapid development of technology for vehicles with alternative drive systems and high-voltage electrical systems has made the safety design of high-voltage connectors a key topic of debate within the industry. Some argue that the redundant designs prevalent across the industry represent technical waste that inflates production costs, while others insist that safety redundancy is a non-negotiable baseline in high-voltage environments.
Grand Opening of the New Plant in Oujda, Morocco
Hirschmann Automotive proudly announces the official opening of its new state-of-the-art plant in Oujda, Morocco. Following a record construction time of just ten months, the facility is now fully operational, marking a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy.
Best Technical Practice Award at the 2025 Gasgoo Awards
Hirschmann Automotive's HPS40-L one-piece shielding high voltage connector has been awarded the Best Technical Practice Award at the 2025 Gasgoo Awards.
Regranulation in the Automotive Industry: Driving the Circular Economy Forward
When we talk about regranulation, we mean the process of converting sorted plastic production waste into reusable granulate. This material flow is playing a crucial role in enabling a circular and low-carbon economy. It provides a solution for reducing waste and reducing dependency on raw materials while maintaining the high-quality standards demanded by the automotive sector.
A Milestone to Deepen the Strategic Layout of the Chinese Market: Shanghai Competence Center
Recently, Hirschmann Automotive (Nantong) Co, Ltd. officially opened its new Competence Center and Engineering Hub in Shanghai, marking a new stage in the strategic orientation of the world's leading automotive supplier in the Chinese market.
A Glimpse into Innovation with Sundaresan Arunachalam
At Hirschmann Automotive, innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a mindset. And few embody this better than Sundaresan Arunachalam, a dedicated member of our Research & Development team who has been helping shape the future of mobility for over 6 years. With a passion for materials science and relentless curiosity for what’s next, Sundaresan brings both vision and precision to every project he touches. We sat down with him to talk about what fuels his drive, his proudest achievements, and what the future of electromobility means to him.
Why High-Performance Connectors are Key to eMobility
eMobility is evolving rapidly. Around the world, governments are setting ambitious climate targets, automotive manufacturers are investing billions in new platforms and technologies, and consumers are demanding sustainable, high-performance alternatives to traditional combustion engines. Today, it is no longer just about range or charging times; it’s the quality and reliability of the components used that are increasingly moving into focus. A crucial yet often underestimated factor plays a key role here: connection technology.
From Passion to Product: Daniel’s Journey in High Voltage Electromobility
In the fast-paced world of automotive technology, Hirschmann Automotive stands out as a key player – driving innovation and shaping the future of mobility. We had the pleasure of interviewing Daniel, who has been with the company for several years and recently stepped into the role of Global Product Manager for High Voltage (HV) connectors. His story offers a compelling look into a dynamic industry and the exciting evolution of electromobility. We asked Daniel five questions to learn more about his journey, his role, and his vision for the road ahead.
Bordnetzkongress 2025: Congress Kick-off in Ludwigsburg
Hirschmann Automotive participated in the Bordnetzkongress in Ludwigsburg, which turned out to be an outstanding debut.
Motivation meets Performance » 42 Apprentices Receive Awards for Their Achievements
Here at Hirschmann Automotive, commitment is rewarded – this was once again demonstrated at the half-yearly apprentice awards ceremony.
electronica China 2025 | Trade Fair Review
electronica China 2025 has successfully come to an end, and we look back on three exciting days in Shanghai.
Connected by Passion for a Green Future: Together We Celebrated Earth Week
While Earth Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of protecting our planet, at Hirschmann Automotive, we take this awareness a step further. For the second year in a row, we have transformed this awareness into action through our Earth Week campaign. This year, we mobilized our locations worldwide to contribute meaningfully to the theme of biodiversity.
A Career with a Future: From Junior Engineer to Team Leader
Professional development and a supportive environment are crucial when choosing an employer in today's working world. Alexandrina is an example of a successful career at Hirschmann Automotive – a company that focuses on individual development and professional growth.
electronica China: International Trade Fair
Join us on-site in Shanghai, from April 15 to 17. We invite you to visit us at booth W3.705 at electronica China 2025, where you'll see our latest innovations in automotive e-mobility, signal & power, and data connectivity for EVs and commercial vehicles. Discover how our team of experts envisions the future of e-mobility. We're looking forward to connecting with you to discuss your vehicle designs and how our eMobility solutions can help enhance performance and safety.
A Career with a Future: From Internship to Manager in Quality Assurance
Madalina first encountered Hirschmann Automotive four years ago and took the opportunity to prove herself in the company during her internship. Today, she is Head of the Initial Sampling & Quality Planning Serial Supervision department and a leader in the Product Quality Department.
A Career with a Future: From Working Student to Manager
An inspiring career path often begins with a courageous decision. Andrada is a perfect example of how commitment and continuous development can lead to professional success.
Insights Into the Expat Life at Hirschmann Automotive
Live from Nantong: Marcel Küplen has been an expat in Nantong, China, since August 2024. Read more and get some insights.
Hirschmann Automotive Welcomes New Managing Director Operations for Romania Plant
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Tagorean as the new Managing Director for our Romanian operations.
The new Technical Cleanliness Area in Târgu Mureș
Our new Technical Cleanliness area in Târgu Mureș is specifically designed to meet the high cleanliness requirements of e-mobility products.
The Double Challenge: Women and the Path Between Career and Family
Many women juggle their careers, families, and personal commitments daily, which often leads to difficult decisions: When is the right time to start a family? How can the balance between professional development and personal obligations be maintained? And how can part-time work be made more attractive while still offering exciting and challenging tasks?
Women in Tech at Hirschmann Automotive: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future
Technology is shaping our world at an unprecedented pace, and women in tech are playing a crucial role in driving this transformation. At Hirschmann Automotive, we take immense pride in the remarkable achievements of our female employees, women who are not just breaking barriers but actively redefining technical professions.
20 Years Hirschmann Automotive Academy
On February 24, 2025, we celebrate a special anniversary: The Hirschmann Automotive Academy turns 20 years old! Read on to find out how it all began two decades ago:
Hirschmann Automotive Nantong Has Been Awarded TISAX Certification for Information Security Excellence
As an automotive supplier, having TISAX certification is a key factor in winning the trust of OEMs and their Tier-1 suppliers.
New Managing Director for Detroit Competence Center
We are pleased to announce that David DeCroix took over the position of Managing Director in Detroit, USA, as of January 1, 2025.
The Year of the Snake: Celebrating Connection and Progress
As we enter 2025, Hirschmann Automotive is proud to join millions worldwide in celebrating the Chinese New Year – the Year of the Snake.
Strong Partnerships for the Future
At Hirschmann Automotive, we see the training and development of young talents as one of the most important tasks of our time. Only those who continue to develop can actively shape the future and break new, innovative ground.
Hirschmann Automotive Shines at the Gasgoo Awards
We are pleased that the PowerStar family from Hirschmann Automotive has been awarded the Best Technical Practice Application Award at the Gasgoo Awards. This product line stands out in applications for vehicles with new energy systems, particularly in auxiliary units, due to its exceptional current-carrying capacity, high vibration resistance, and compact design.
Our Recap of the EICMA in Milan
This year, our team had the opportunity to showcase at EICMA in Milan for the first time – the world’s largest trade show for motorcycles and related industries.
Recap of the IZB: A Successful Trade Fair Participation
Every two years, the latest trends in the automotive supply industry are presented, and visitor records are broken each time. The trade fair's motto was “Empowering Partnerships.”
Recap of the Battery Show & Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Expo 2024
We are pleased to look back on our successful participation from October 8 to 10 and to have the opportunity to present our advanced solutions for electrified vehicles in the automotive sector.
Making Apprenticeships Future-Proof
Qualified specialists are the basis for competitive companies and make a lasting contribution to the success of a company. We always strives to meet the goals of an excellent training company and to offer our apprentices the best possible training.
Start of the New Apprentices
As every year, the time had come again at the beginning of September: we welcomed 15 new apprentices and two business students at the plant in Rankweil, Austria as well as five new apprentices in Freyung, Germany.
A New Addition to Hirschmann Automotive
We are delighted to welcome Dennis Bräutigam as a new member of our management team at Hirschmann Automotive! With over 24 years of experience in stamping and forming technology, he brings immense knowledge and a strong passion for innovation.
Awarded as Excellent Apprenticeship Company
We're delighted to announce that we've once again received the state award »Excellent Apprenticeship Company 2024-2027«! The »Excellent Apprenticeship Company« initiative is awarded every three years and is aimed at apprenticeship companies that demonstrate above-average quality in the training of their apprentices.
On Road to the Smart Factory
Hirschmann Automotive continues to focus on intelligent but resource-saving automation and invests in state-of-the-art technologies at its headquarters in Rankweil, Austria.
electronica China 2024 | Trade Fair Review
electronica China 2024 has come to a successful end, and we at Hirschmann Automotive can look back on an exciting and productive trade fair.
Receiving the Prestigious »Lean Management-Leitbetrieb®« 2023/2024 Award
Hirschmann Automotive has received the prestigious »Lean Management-Leitbetrieb®« 2023/2024 award for the West region in Austria! This coveted award is given to companies that stand out through the implementation of lean management strategies with a focus on waste reduction, efficient processes and continuous improvement. This award confirms that the automotive supplier is practicing lean management at a very high level. In addition, Hirschmann Automotive's contributions have significantly enriched the exchange of experience within the Lean Circle Group. This commitment has made a significant contribution to strengthening the production sites in Austria and securing production and jobs in the country. The achievement reflects the commitment to these principles and the tireless pursuit of excellence. A big thank you to the team who made this award possible! This is a testament to the commitment and continuous development of Hirschmann Automotive.
Connected by Passion for a Green Future: Together We Celebrated Earth Week
In cooperation with all seven plants, we have organized our first interactive Earth Week Campaign around the globe. From planting trees to building bee hotels, our employees have initiated conservation efforts that benefit our environment and biodiversity in the long term.
Hirschmann Automotive Invests in the Future: New Plants in Morocco & China
Hirschmann Automotive, a leading global provider of premium solutions for the automotive industry, continues to expand its economic and technological lead with investments around the globe. The expansion in Morocco and China marks a significant milestone in the company's growth strategy and strengthens its market position.
Success Story: We Are A Great Place To Work®
We are happy to share some exciting news: Hirschmann Automotive is a certified Great Place To Work® company at four of our seven plants worldwide.
Women in Leadership
»Today, we are celebrating the strength, determination, and resilience of women everywhere.« - Michelle Obama. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!
Standing Strong Together: Our Donation Campaign for Morocco
In September, Morocco was shaken by a devastating earthquake that left the nation racing against the clock to find survivors and assess the damage caused. Our thoughts and support go out to the people affected by this tragedy.
(E)mission Impossible?
Hirschmann Automotive is confidently taking the road towards CO₂ neutrality by 2039 with a multifaceted approach.
Standing Strong Together
In recent days, Morocco was shaken by a devastating earthquake that has left the nation racing against the clock to find survivors and assess the damage caused by it. Our thoughts and support go out to the people affected by this tragedy.
The Representatives of Vorarlberg's Most Prominent Companies as Guests in Our Halls
On Tuesday evening, our logistics center at the headquarters in Rankweil was transformed into an event location! The reason was the “VN Top 100” event, where more than 300 top representatives and prominent entrepreneurs from Vorarlberg's economy and politics, including Finance Minister Magnus Brunner and Country Councilor Marco Tittler, were visiting. We are proud to have hosted this event, where Vorarlberg's largest and most successful companies are honored, and the VN Business Award is presented every year.
Angelo Holzknecht Becomes New CEO of Hirschmann Automotive
Following the latest Board resolution, Angelo Holzknecht will take up the position of Chief Executive Officer. The international automotive supplier is pleased to be able to appoint this responsible position from within its own ranks.
Most Attractive Employer for Students Award
We are pleased to announce that our plant in Vsetín has been honored with the "Most AQttractive Employer for Students Award 2022" on 3rd place in Zlín region. This award is a result of our teamwork and passion for people.
Strengthening Diversity, Creating Opportunities, Shaping the Future
For Hirschmann Automotive, International Women's Day is much more than just a symbolic date. It reminds us of the importance of equal opportunities, visibility, and mutual support in everyday working life – especially in an industry that has traditionally been heavily technical. As an international company with employees from over 40 countries, we are committed to creating a working environment in which all talents are recognized and promoted.
This year, International Women's Day has the global motto “Empower Progress” – a call to actively participate in making progress not only visible but also tangible.
When Unconscious Thought Patterns Influence Decisions
Unconscious bias – i.e., unconscious prejudices and thought patterns – is more common in our everyday and professional lives than we think. It arises from experiences, cultural influences, or social role models. In companies, they can manifest themselves in different perceptions of men's and women's communication styles, spontaneous assumptions about who is “typical” for a technical or leadership position, and subtle behaviors in meetings or decision-making processes.
In 2026, issues such as equal pay, equal opportunities, the visibility of women in leadership positions, work-life balance, and the promotion of girls and young women in technical professions are more relevant than ever. Studies worldwide show that companies with a higher proportion of women in leadership positions are more profitable, more innovative, and more resilient in the long term. However, many industries – especially technical and industrial ones – are still heavily male-dominated.
International Women's Day reminds us that equality is not a “nice-to-have” but a real success factor for companies and society.
The first step toward greater equality is awareness, because equality arises when people treat each other with respect, when perspectives are heard, when teams are diverse, and when courage is encouraged. International Women's Day highlights what is often overlooked in everyday working life.
Women in Technical Professions: Visibility, Courage, and New Perspectives
The proportion of women in technical industries is growing – but slowly. This makes it all the more important to raise the profile of women who choose this path and give them space to share their experiences. In last year's report, “Women in Technology,” female colleagues from engineering, production, and quality management shared insights into their everyday lives. Their message was clear: technology is not a male profession – technology is the future. And this future needs different perspectives, creative approaches, and diverse teams. Many of our female employees emphasize how valuable the support of colleagues, mentors, and managers is – and how much clear development prospects motivate them. This is exactly where our internal programs come in: from professional development to career and educational paths tailored to technical talent.
Work-Life Balance – for Women & Men
The compatibility of work and family life is a key issue that affects employees regardless of gender. Modern working environments demand flexibility, but also enable new forms of collaboration. Many employees today face the challenge of balancing professional development, private commitments, and family responsibilities. To accommodate these different realities, Hirschmann Automotive relies on flexible working time models, hybrid work models, needs-based part-time solutions, shift models with adjustment options, and initiatives for mental health and well-being.
The development continues: we see work-life balance as a key issue for the future of work and a modern work culture. A culture of openness is particularly important here: teams, managers, and organizations must work together to create conditions that not only enable but also actively support a balance between work and family life. After all, flexibility in practice not only promotes employee satisfaction and motivation but also strengthens innovation and long-term loyalty to the company.
You can find further insights into the challenges and developments surrounding this topic in our detailed background report “The Double Challenge.”
Women in Leadership: Greater Visibility, More Role Models
When more women pursue technical careers and companies simultaneously create conditions that enable all employees to balance work and family life, a foundation is laid for female leaders to grow. Visible role models, fair development opportunities, and a culture that recognizes potential rather than reproducing stereotypes play a decisive role in this. For us, it is clear that leadership thrives on skills, not gender.
To ensure that this understanding is reflected in everyday corporate life, measures are needed that are specifically designed to strengthen diversity in leadership. This includes actively recruiting women for career and leadership programs and facilitating their access to development opportunities. It is equally important to establish gender-neutral processes – from talent identification and promotion to filling leadership positions. A strength-based approach helps to identify individual competencies and shape leadership based on personal aptitudes.
The more diverse leadership teams are, the broader their perspectives, decision-making quality, and innovative strength become. However, greater visibility does not just mean showcasing successful women externally but also creating internal structures that enable talent to flourish and promote long-term development. This creates an environment in which women are encouraged to take on responsibility and in which leadership is characterized by competence, trust, and diversity.
Shaping the Future Together
International Women's Day 2026 reminds us of the importance of questioning existing structures, opening up opportunities, and actively embracing diversity. Our vision is clear: a working environment in which every person can develop their potential – regardless of gender, origin, or life situation.
We are proud of the women who drive innovation, quality, and team spirit at Hirschmann Automotive every day. And we are delighted to have colleagues working together to pave the way for greater equality, because progress can only be achieved together.
March 8 is a day full of energy, inspiration, and exchange. A day on which we can celebrate successes: women who take on responsibility, break down barriers, and serve as role models for future generations.
But it is also a day that shows that we have not yet reached our goal. Equality is not a state, but a process – a path that we will continue to walk together.
Happy International Women's Day 2026!