MY JOURNEY
WORK EXPERIENCE
Project Manager
UNICOR GmbH
Present
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My role involves managing cross-functional teams to ensure smooth project execution and acting as a key point of contact for clients, keeping their needs and expectations in view throughout each project. I rely on flexibility, adaptability and technical expertise to understand and address challenging issues. On a day-to-day basis, I use a combination of project management, budgeting and time management skills to balance resources and achieve project goals.
Skills: Project Management, Organization, Budgeting, Time Management, Extrusion (Polymers)
Scientific Assistant
Institute of Polymer Technology (LKT)
2 years and 2 months
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In my role at the Institute of Polymer Technology, my primary research focused on optical polymers, on manufare achromatic lenses through compression injection molding with two transparent polymers (PMMA and PC). In addition to research, I supported the Institute in a variety of ways, including running student lab sessions in areas such as injection molding, coordinating field trips to companies, and organizing Institute open houses to promote interest in polymer technology. As the primary contact for the lectures, I managed communication with the students.
Skills: Materials Science, Injection Molding, Optics, Polymers, Moldflow, SolidWorks, Project Management
Working Student
MegaPlast GmbH
6 months
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At MegaPlast, I implemented a project management system to improve communication between departments. Through regular cross-functional meetings, I facilitated collaboration between production, sales, and design teams to improve project progress and teamwork. I also took the initiative to develop a QR code database system to track injection molding tooling changeovers. Inspired by seeing handwritten checks on the production floor, I proposed the idea of optimizing the process digitally.
Skills: Project Management, Innovation, Team Management, MySQL, HTML
Working Student
E-proPLAST GmbH
6 months
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As a Quality Management Assistant, my primary responsibility was quality control of the company’s packaging materials. Faced with recurring box quality issues, I researched and tested different types of boxes to find the most durable options. In addition, I was able to assist the mechanical engineering department by doing some re-designs with CATIA, expanding my CAD skills.
Skills: Quality Management, CAD, CATIA
Working Student
Veritas Thüringen GmbH
2 years
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In my first corporate job, I worked on an internal project to improve sales by analyzing top and underperforming products. Each week, I selected two top-selling and two bottom-selling products and reviewed production data (batch sizes, injection molding cycle times, and assembly processes) to identify areas for improvement. Through this experience, I gained hands-on experience in a supportive environment, making these two years fundamental to my career growth.
Skills: Industrial Engineering, Process Optimization, Process Engineering
ENGINEERING PROJECTS
Website Management
Ongoing
Management and maintenance of multiple websites, including personal and professional sites
Overview
I manage several websites, including event sites and personal projects like a recipe blog. I handle everything from content updates to design. I approach website management with a „learn as I go“ mindset. This project has improved my digital communication skills, kept me active in English writing, and expanded my understanding of content creation.
Skills: Web Development, Content Management, Digital Communication
Master Thesis – Brose Group
2021
Investigation of material models for modeling the creep behavior of components made of fiber-reinforced thermoplastics in finite element simulation
Overview
The goal of this thesis was to explore creep behavior in fiber-reinforced thermoplastics, specifically PP-LGF30. Through a combination of modeling, experimentation, and finite element simulation (FEM) in ANSYS, I analyzed the material’s long-term deformation under stress. Testing was conducted on specimens with different fiber orientations to understand anisotropic properties, which were then used to develop predictive models. This research culminated in a creep simulation applied to an industrial component.
Skills: Materials Science, FEM Analysis, ANSYS
Injection Molding Machine Build with Arduino
2021
Design and assembly of a small-scale injection molding machine with Arduino programming.
Overview
Together with a friend, we designed and built a compact piston injection molding machine, programmed with Arduino for prototype production, for a university project. To learn as much as possible, we turned and milled some parts ourselves. We also programmed the Arduino and welded the electrical parts. This project gave me hands-on experience.
Skills: Arduino Programming, Soldering, Mechanical Design
QR Code System Implementation for Injection Molding Machines
2021
Development of a QR code tracking system for tool changes in injection molding, supported by a custom database
Overview
During my time at MegaPlast GmbH, I saw potential in tracking tool changes in injection molding. I proposed and developed a QR code system to improve and digitize the process, enabling real-time documentation and improved tool management via a centralized database.
Skills: MySQL, Process Improvement, Innovation
Injection Mold Design for Two-Component Injection Molding
2020
Design of a dual-component injection molding tool for ABS and TPE materials
Overview
As part of a university project, I was tasked with designing a two-component mold for an injection molding machine. The part was a door and window stopper made of ABS and TPE components. I expanded my knowledge of CAD (specifically SolidWorks) and injection molding design.
Skills: CAD, Injection Mold Design, SolidWorks
Bachelor Thesis – Veritas Thüringen GmbH
2020
Design of the blow molding process for the production of automotive charge air systems
Overview
For my bachelor’s thesis, I worked on the design of a 3D blow molding process to produce charge air systems for automotive applications, with the goal of producing the product within product specifications. My work involved setting production parameters to meet high quality requirements while optimizing efficiency.
Skills: 3D Blow Molding, Polymer Processing, Material Characterization
Internship Project – Veritas Thüringen GmbH
2018
Economic evaluation of standard cells in polymer manufacturing to automate post-processing steps
Overview
This internship project focused on the economic evaluation of automating standard cells for the downstream steps of injection molding products to improve quality and efficiency. Working closely with engineers and mechanics, I evaluated investment and manufacturing costs to determine the viability of the automation. The project confirmed that the implementation of standard cells could reduce manufacturing costs and improve product quality, which would benefit the company’s overall efficiency.
Skills: Industrial Engineering, Process Optimization, Investment Evaluation
RECOGNITIONS & OTHER EXPERIENCES
Conference Speaker
Optics, Lasers, and Photonics Conference, London
2023
Description
Topic: „Improving the Optical Properties of Achromatic Lenses through Process Conditions“
I presented my research on improving the optical properties of achromatic lenses through optimized process conditions. The study focused on injection molding of polycarbonate (PC) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) for optical clarity, testing various parameters to reduce residual stresses and improve quality. This presentation at an international conference further developed my scientific communication and public speaking skills.
Guest Lecturer – Topic: “Innovations in Polymer Technology”
International Engineering Week, Hochschule Schmalkalden
2022
Description
Presented a lecture on the latest innovations in polymer technology from the Institute of Polymer Technology (LKT) at the International Engineering Week 2022, covering topics such as advanced processing methods and applications in e-mobility and medical technology.
Winner of DAAD Award
Hochschule Schmalkalden
2020
Description
Awarded annually to an international student who demonstrates academic excellence and outstanding social commitment within and beyond the university. Receiving the DAAD Award recognized my dedication to academics and active involvement in the university community.
Head of Organization Team – International Engineering Week
Hochschule Schmalkalden
2020
Description
Led the organization of International Engineering Week (IEW), an event promoting engineering knowledge and international networking. In response to COVID-19, I transitioned the event to a virtual format, managing a team of 22 students to create an engaging online experience. This role strengthened my skills in team management, leadership, and adaptability.
Financial Studies
Deutsch-Kasachische Universität (DKU)
2019
Description
Completed a two-week finance and investment program at the German-Kazakh University (DKU). This is a partner program with the University of Applied Sciences in Schmalkalden, Germany, and was a perfect opportunity to expand my knowledge of finance while having a meaningful cultural exchange.
For this program I received the PROMOS scholarship from the DAAD.
Exchange Student Year
Germany
Description
After high school in Venezuela, I spent an exchange year in Germany, living with a host family and attending a German school. In addition to achieving fluency in German, the experience shaped my independence, adaptability and resilience, and fostered personal growth that continues to benefit me in both my personal and professional life.
EDUCATION
Applied Plastics Technology
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Hochschule Schmalkalden
2021
Industrial Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Hochschule Schmalkalden
2020
ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Member of Über den Tellerrand e.V.
2019 – 2021
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Active member of Über den Tellerrand Schmalkalden, a non-profit organization focused on the integration of refugees. Participated in cultural activities such as shared meals and sports events, fostering a welcoming environment and promoting cultural exchange.
Student Council (Fachschaft Maschinenbau) Member
2017 – 2021
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As a member of the Mechanical Engineering Student Council, I worked with my classmates to enhance the academic and social experience for students within our department, contributing to various initiatives and activities.
Collaboration with Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)
2015 – 2021
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In partnership with the Techniker Krankenkasse, I assisted with translation to support and facilitate international students‘ access to healthcare resources.
Jury Member for Thüringer Gründungsideenwettbewerb
2019 – 2020
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Participated as a jury member in the Thuringian Startup Ideas Competition, providing feedback and insights to aspiring entrepreneurs to support and refine their business ideas
Buddy Program for International Students
2017
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Volunteered as a buddy for international students in Germany, helping newcomers adjust to university life and navigate cultural differences.
Resident Contact for International Students in University Dorms
2016 – 2017
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Serve as a point of contact in the dorms, welcoming international students and helping them adjust to life on campus.
WORKSHOPS
Operational Excellence Foundations
2024
Richard Chua
LinkedIn Learning
Failure Analysis of Polymers
2023
Practical workshop at LKT (Institute of Polymer Technology)
Thermal Analysis of Polymers
2023
Practical workshop at LKT (Institute of Polymer Technology)
Sample Preparation and Microscopy of Polymers
2023
Practical workshop at LKT (Institute of Polymer Technology)
Introduction to Web Design and Development
2021
LinkedIn Learning
Simple Rules for Bootstrapping Your Startup
2018
Dr. Olaf Cassiani,
Workshop, TGF Schmalkalden – Dermbach GmbH
Es Cuestión de Actitud (It is all about the atittude)
2015
Catharina Wassink
Workshop, Emprendamas