Maria Collins
Executive Coordination Manager, ANDRITZ Hydropower Austria
Almost fifteen years ago, Maria Collins walked through the doors of ANDRITZ Hydropower for the first time. From the very beginning, she felt that this was more than a job. It was a place where engineering, purpose, and renewable energy came together.
In 2011, Maria joined ANDRITZ as a Hydraulic Design Engineer in the hydraulic laboratory in Linz, Austria. There, she experienced how theory becomes reality – through model testing, measurement technology, simulation, and laboratory experimentation.
“In our hydraulic laboratories in Linz and Graz, we don’t just design turbines,” she says. “We push the boundaries of what’s possible in renewable energy.”
Over the years, Maria’s journey has taken her through different roles, disciplines, and responsibilities. From hydraulic design and R&D project management to technical sales, project execution, and team leadership, each step has broadened her perspective and strengthened her confidence.
In 2016, she moved into technical sales as a Layout Engineer, before returning to the hydraulic laboratory in 2018 as Hydraulic Project Engineer. In 2024, she took on leadership responsibility as Head of Hydraulic Project Engineering. Since March 2026, Maria has taken on her new role as Executive Coordination Manager, supporting the Board.
For Maria, this path reflects what makes ANDRITZ Hydropower special: the opportunity to grow, take on new challenges, and connect technical precision with strategic vision.
“I’ve grown from core engineering into multidisciplinary projects, technical sales, project execution, and team leadership,” she explains. “Each challenge has taught me that excellence isn’t just about designing brilliant solutions – it’s about making them work in the real world.”
Working with talented colleagues from around the globe has also shaped Maria personally. Leading multicultural teams and collaborating across disciplines deepened her belief in the power of diverse perspectives. Talent and leadership programs further supported her development and encouraged her to keep expanding her view.
She is especially proud to be part of an organization that champions gender equity and diverse perspectives in technical roles.
“The best solutions come from the richest mix of minds,” Maria says.
Today, as Executive Coordination Manager, Maria carries forward everything her journey has taught her: technical understanding, resilience, collaboration, leadership, and a growing interest in strategic corporate direction.